University of California-Los Angeles Reviews

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Ronald from Cerritos, CA

07/11/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

96 out of 98 people found this review useful.
2 people found this inaccurate.
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Great for these types of students

This is the perfect school for essay writers. For humanities classes, you will most likely never have multiple choice tests, so exam grades will depend almost entirely on written answers to questions. If you are fast and skilled in crafting essays and short answer responses, then you will do well in the non-science and humanities courses. In addition, strongly motivated students would thrive here. For the chemistry, math, and other science related courses, homework is almost never assigned. In other words, grades will be determined almost always by quizzes and tests exclusively. It will be entirely up to you to do homework problems and to go to office hours for questions and insight. Self-motivation, especially in science and math courses, is a key factor to success here. Last of all, sociable and amiable people would be great fits for the school. Fraternities, sororities, volunteer organizations, and other groups abound on campus, and they love recruiting outgoing, enthusiastic, and affable students who are willing to reach out to others. With a school this big, it would be a waste of time to come and absorb yourself solely with your own problems. At UCLA, the world awaits. Shy and overly reserved people will miss out on all that the school has to offer.

Tips for prospective students

The issue of parking is a touchy subject in Westwood. To be frank, getting parking permits in the area is extremely difficult, especially for those that live on or near campus. Priority for parking permits goes to commuters and faculty, so it is next to impossible to find parking spots in or around the school. Prospective students should therefore plan on leaving their cars at home as long as they live near campus during the school year. People who plan on commuting should go ahead and apply for permits. As you may have already guessed, this college is a populous school. As a result, it is quite common for underclassmen to be placed into lectures with 400 or more people in attendance. In addition, the pace of life on campus is astonishingly quick. With that said, it is easy for new students to feel overwhelmed and intimidated by how big and daunting everything seems. To allay some tension and fear, first year students should realize that they are not alone in their concerns. Around 5000 freshmen experience UCLA for the first time every year and most of them feel as if they are tiny fish in a huge ocean. I would strongly encourage new ones to reach out to their peers, who are not immune to this feeling of smallness and insignificance. Actively seeking companionship in the first ten weeks of school would be beneficial, because the friendships you make in your first quarter will last throughout your undergraduate years. The beginning of your freshman year is critical, especially in terms of the network of friends you establish. So don’t be passive about communication. Be active and talk with your classmates and peers. College may seem to be daunting at first, but strength and encouragement can be found in companionship.

Bang for the buck

The dormitory experience is unique and is worth the price of around $10,000 for three quarters. In my first year, I lived in a plaza where the internet speed was great and air conditioning was unlimited. Also, the housekeeping crew came by every week and made sure my room was nice and clean. Furthermore, I was able to eat in the residential restaurants, which serve buffet-style food. It was nice how the chefs would cook new things every week and keep the students guessing. In short, I'd recommend all incoming students to live in plazas for their first year. The price may be high, but you'll live comfortably and won't be disappointed. Regarding the school as a whole, UCLA is a public university, so the cost of attendance is around half that of private institutions. The estimated cost of attendance for an on campus student is $25,000, which takes into account room and board fees, tuition costs, and book expenses. However, this amount is a tremendous bargain when compared to prices of other schools such as the University of Southern California, which has an estimated cost of attendance of $50,000. Seeing as how UCLA is the third best public university and is ranked 24th among America’s best colleges by U.S. News and World Report, the cost of attending the school is pretty reasonable. In reality, I find it difficult to put a price on the friendships, experiences, and knowledge gained from being here. Indeed, the opportunities for academic, social, and personal growth are plentiful. At this university, I am receiving the total package: academics, research, and world renowned athletic programs. I can honestly say that the balanced undergraduate experience I am attaining is worth every penny.

Am enjoying being here

First of all, I absolutely love the weather. Most of the time, days here will be sunny and bright with temperatures in the 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit range. Plus, the campus is filled with pleasant architecture and appealing sceneries that complement the agreeable climate. It's no wonder that students love to bring blankets and relax on the green grass under the California sun. I have also found that there are many opportunities to get involved and meet new people. With hundreds of student organizations available every year, UCLA makes it easy to find one’s niche. For example, if you’re a skateboarding fan, you can join the Vans Club. If you are Buddhist, there are several meditation groups and Buddhist organizations to choose from. If you're a first generation college student, there will be multiple groups and clubs available to support you in your endeavors. In short, there will be a place for you on campus no matter what your background is. Furthermore, I was able to enjoy my time with friends by shopping and dining out in Westwood Village, which is right next to campus and filled with first rate restaurants and movie theaters. The Getty Museum is also close by. The architecture of the Getty is incredible, and the museum is truly a relaxing place. The bottom line is that when I didn’t feel like studying, there were innumerable things for me to do! In addition, I was able to find an on campus job during my first year. By handling both classes and employment commitments, my time management skills were greatly enhanced. Plus, I had fun knowing that I was spending my time wisely. I had a blast meeting new people, learning different skills, and getting paid for my efforts.

Am learning a lot

At UCLA, each academic term, or quarter, lasts for only ten weeks. With that said, you'll definitely learn what you're made of when attending this school. Each quarter will pass by very quickly, so you'll be forced to learn how to juggle classwork with extracurricular activities. Furthermore, you'll be brought into a special community of talented people and will learn how to be humble because you'll be surrounded by students that are just as intelligent and hard-working as you are. I definitely learned to be more modest in my first year, and I'm grateful for the experience. In addition, I participated in research at this school and became familiarized with the scientific process. You can get started by contacting professors who are looking to work with undergraduates (many professors are willing to do this). Once a professor expresses interest in your participation, you will begin your journey of enlightenment. Research will show a hands-on side of science that textbooks can never teach. In addition, research projects can be completed on subjects such as History, Asian American Studies, and World Literature. Almost every department has openings for student research; all one needs to do is look for the opportunities. I certainly did, and I have learned many things concerning the scientific process, different research methods, and state of the art innovations. I have also learned the importance of talking with TAs (Teaching Assistants). More likely than not, the coursework in undergraduate classes will be graded by TAs and not by Professors. By making the effort to stay on the same page with my TAs, I was able to find out exactly what they looked for on essays and exams. I am learning more and more that communication with Teaching Assistants is absolutely essential for success.

Joanna from Carson City, NV

07/21/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

47 out of 48 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Students who want to learn more about other cultures; students who have a work hard, play hard philosophy; students who are school-spirited; students with a positive outlook on life; ambitious students ready to learn about anything and everything.

Tips for prospective students

- Apply for every type of financial aid, especially if you feel that you won't get any. You never know how many other students feel the same way, and your persistence will show. - Take advantage of your professors' wisdom. Ask them questions and visit them during their office hours whenever you can. - Meet a lot of people. Just talk to everyone you meet. Meet their friends. Networking is SOOO important, and you never know who could help you out in the future. - Get involved with some type of community service. Not only does this look great on a resume, but you also learn a lot about human nature and about yourself through it. - Make a schedule and stick to it. This will really prove your discipline. - Form good habits. It takes 21 days to form a habit, and it's always hardest at the beginning, but if you can stick it out, the rewards will definitely outweigh the hardships you went through. - Study every night. This is the biggest difference between high school and college. You are your own boss. Make sure you spend a large amount of your free time refreshing yourself on that morning's lecture. Even if you don't have homework, the information will start to pile up, so it's good to use that free time at the beginning to ensure you know the course information as best you can. - This is especially for the girls: take it easy in the dining halls. Be sure to eat slowly and get one plate at a time. GO TRAYLESS! Even though you think you're getting enough exercise going up that hill every day, a couple slices of pizza and a few burgers can add up to the freshman 15.

Bang for the buck

While the benefits and advantages of UCLA are priceless, having to pay out-of-state tuition is excruciating. As long as you remember to work hard and study hard, you should be able to make this investment worth it.

Am enjoying being here

The dorms are so homey and comfortable. One fear high school graduates have about college is being homesick. The connections established within a floor, a building, the Hill (which is what all the dorms are called) are so personal and genuine that you will be having too much fun with your new college family to even remember you miss having your own room. Every day, the weather in LA is amazing. It is never too cold. There is almost always a light breeze, so it doesn't feel too hot either. This school also offers a wide variety of extracurriculars, for any ethnicity, any religion, any type of athlete. The diversity here is truly astounding, with people from all types of backgrounds, and you truly gain a more global perspective. What's also great is that you are in LA, and everything is so close. In your free time, you could just walk to Westwood and get some Diddy Riese (cheap ice cream for broke college students) or take the Big Blue Bus to Santa Monica to shop or just hang out by the beach. UCLA promises an endless amount of opportunities for its students.

Am learning a lot

The amount of knowledge you will gain during your first year at UCLA will be more valuable than any previous experiences. First, there is the academic aspect. Essentially, the material being taught in college is the same for any school, so self-motivation is a must. Being surrounded by other students who work hard all the time, you can't help but study hard as well and strive to learn and soak up as much knowledge as possible. On top of that, each of the professors add their own flair to their lectures, providing a different and memorable experience to each course. In addition, each course is so unique, the variation in courses offered will keep you interested and never bored. You will also learn a lot of life lessons at UCLA. You will learn a lot about different people, about what passion, dedication, persistence, and hard work truly mean. Most importantly, you'll learn a lot about yourself. The moment you step onto the campus, you'll feel the potential you have inside and instantly gain this I-Can-Do-Anything attitude.

Robyann from Carson, CA

12/20/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

27 out of 29 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

UCLA is overflowed with Life Science students! I'm a Life Science student, my roommate is and her friends, and my friend from high school and the list goes on. Remember, it's UCLA so it's competitive. The breakdown the North Campus vs. South Campus. North campus are majors such as English, History, Humanities, etc. South campus is Math and Sciences. It's more chill at North Campus as compared to South Campus. I quote that from my summer orientation. So you will be classified as a South Campus student or a North Campus student. Also, if you're very outspoken and are not afraid to speak up in a class of about 300, then UCLA lecture halls are for you! In one of my classes, the professors will bump your grade up if you participate in lectures. I'm not sure if this is how it goes for other lectures, most likely not, but if was for my GE Cluster class. And also, this quality is not only great for lectures, but great for Professor/TA office hours. Speak and be heard.

Tips for prospective students

I've already mentioned most of my tips in the other sections, but here they are again. 1) Scholarships. Start applying for them NOW. It's FREE MONEY! go get it! 2) Be aware of the GE and college requirements. Plus, be aware of Major requirements and Graduate School requirements. You want to take classes that will fulfill and overlap most of these requirements so you're saving money and time. 3) Be prepared to work. Do NOT be lazy. 4) Keep track of your expenses. If you haven't already, create a bank account for UCLA to put money in. This is how you will be reimbursed if you are eligible. 5) Get ready for the walk! Dorms are on a hill and classes are down the hill. About a 15 to 20 minute walk. (Set your alarms!!!!) 6) Don't forget to eat!!! This might seem like a joke, but it's very possible and likely to happen and once you realized that you haven't eaten, the dining halls are closed. Luckily, there are places where you could use your ID card to take out food. 7) Sign up for TUTORING!!! There is AAP tutoring if you qualify! Mostly for students coming from a low-income background. 8) Check out BRUINWALK.COM to read what other students wrote about your professors and classes! Very helpful, so you can avoid those mean professors! :] 9) Sign up for clubs!! 10) Set aside time for you! :] Relax and take it easy. Panicking all the time won't be fun! Enjoy your college experience :]

Bang for the buck

I'm not exactly sure what Bang for the buck means but I read another person's review and they were talking about the costs. Cost of Attendance. Yikes. Not a great number. I am a college freshman and my tuition for the Fall started around 26,000 and in just one quarter, it went up to 27,000. This school year, 2009-2010, the UC Regents decided to raise our tuition by around 30%. Unbelievable. There were student-protests and everything but the Regents still went on with the increase in tuition. If you are a high school student, or any student, apply for scholarships NOW. If you want to go to UCLA or any UC or private school, start applying for scholarships!!!! Tuition is ridiculously expensive. I come from a single-oarent household and I had no money for college (ie. no college fund) and fortunately won some scholarships, which helped me A LOT. Also, there are more expenses you must make other than tuition. There are housing applications and deposits. Doctor visits if you waive UCLA's insurance offer. The case that UCLA over awarded you and you must return the money. For most clubs you have to pay to be members. Money to buy lunch down at Ackerman or Luvalle Commons because you're down there waiting for your next class and do not have time to go back to the dining halls. Textbooks are also very expensive. There are more things I paid for but can't remember everything at the moment. I'm not trying to scare you off from applying/attending to UCLA. I just want you to be aware of where your money will be going. So start saving or spend your money on things you NEED rather than WANT, etc.

Am enjoying being here

To be honest, I haven't been enjoying my stay. UCLA is not at fault; it's definitely me. I kind of entered college with a negative attitude and unexcited. I missed home and missed my old friends who went to other universities. I just disliked the fact of starting over. I went home every weekend because I live just about roughly 23 miles away, so I'm free to go home and back. I was having trouble with my classes and the amount of work I received. I just had a tough transition. However, I joined Samahang Pilipino and I felt as if I was back in high school because my high school was filled with Filipinos and it comforted me. I also signed up for OSA Mentorship and got paired with a mentor who's interests are very scarily similar to mine! So that's the only good part so far about college.

Am learning a lot

I am learning a lot about myself and the people around me here at UCLA. You're definitely another person in college compared to who you were in high school. I entered college dreading the amount of work I was going to get. I was right about the work, but what I didn't know was how I would and should have handled it. I am learning that I lack the effective studying skills/habits needed in college. In my high school, I was able to cram all the information I could the night before and end up with an A. That is definitely not the case in college. I knew that, and yet, procrastination still caught me and then there I was panicking days before finals. I'm sure most of you are reading this and saying, I already know that! Well that's the same thing I said! But!! saying isn't the same as doing now is it? So, based on the past quarter, I learned what my mistakes were. My mistakes were not reading all of the recommended readings. -__- Also, reviewing the material all too late. I should have made sure that I understood everything while I was learning it not days before the final. Another important point is that I should NOT WASTE TIME! ahhh. I'm really good at that. I don't even know what I'm doing and why I waste time. Some things you should know about UCLA, especially if your going to dorm is that dorms are on a HILL and the classes are 15 minutes DOWNHILL. It is such a pain walking back up from class. So, I learned to always keep a water bottle with me! And a towel! -__- I basically just learned how to organize and schedule everything better, which is key. Prioritizing and organization is very important. Good luck to all incoming freshmen next year! :]

Kate

08/06/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

20 out of 21 people found this review useful.
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Tips for prospective students

Go to class -- except maybe not discussions. But definitely give your discussions a few tries before you stop attending (and definitely attend if attendance is mandatory). I had one TA who gave us huge (HUGE) homework hints which actually annoyed me, because I kind of thought the homework was... I can't believe I'm saying this... fun. But it would have been helpful if I had been struggling. Give professors a chance. I had one professor who didn't seem like the greatest teacher at first, but as soon I got used to his teaching style I realized that he is actually an amazing, nice, and funny teacher. He's become on of my favorite teachers, and his classes ( I took two) one of the deciding factors in determining my major. Choose your meal plan wisely. Are you going to eat out a lot? Are you going to go home? Are you really going to get up and go to the dining hall before 9 for breakfast if you don't have class? If you do have class? (note: there are to-go places open until about 11 for breakfast ) Somehow, there are people who end up with more than 20 meals swipes left at the end of the quarter-- I don't know about you, but my parents would not pleased.

Bang for the buck

The education you receive is definitely worth the price, especially if you're a California resident. However housing is a tad pricey. The dorm rooms are tiny, of course, but there is free air conditioning and heating (if your building has it). There is also free cable, and internet in every room (most buildings have wireless). There is also free maintenance, all you have to do is to request it. In the plazas (the rooms with a attached, private bathrooms) a maid comes once a week to clean the bathroom.

Am enjoying being here

The campus and the weather is beautiful. Everything is within walking distance, which I absolutely love. It is quite difficult to get parking permit, but the only time I regret this (and not having the car to park with it) is when it comes time to visit home. It takes a 2 hour bus ride just to get to the train station. The public transit in LA is not amazing, but it works if you want to go to the mall, or the beach. Because the school is so big there is something for everyone. There are plenty of partyers if that's your thing, and if it's not there are plenty of other fun people (like me!). Also the food is quite good for being dorm food. Though I haven't had much other dorm food to compare it to I can say without a doubt that our food tastes better than UCSB's. There's also a good amount of variety, and there are always hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, and fries if you're a picky eater. The turkey burgers in particular are divine.

Am learning a lot

All of the professors that I have had, so far, have been knowledgeable about their subject and the majority of them can also teach. I have only had two professors from whom I learned very little, and I believe that my inability to learn anything from the second was mostly the fault of the first's. The TA's are somewhat less stellar, however, I would say about 50% of them were actually quite good. (note: Most large lower division classes are taught by a professor, therefore once or twice a week there is a discussion where a TA teaches and takes questions from a much smaller class). On the whole, regardless of the quality of TA I've found discussions quite useless, however if the TA prepares a lecture they can be helpful.

Jazmin from Los Angeles, CA

07/23/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

17 out of 20 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Hard working, competitive, studious people would do great in UCLA. As a whole, the school is very competitive. When they mean they hate Trojans, they hate them. Also, if you're somewhat or are athletic, you're going to love this school because of all the hills and the Janss Steps. Just be mindful that wherever you're dorming, be mindful that some classes might be half a mile away (maybe more).

Tips for prospective students

Have Fun. Don't bite more than what you can chew: schedule wise. Freshman fifteen does not happen to everyone, but if you're not careful it will happen to you. Stay on top of your homework because sometimes you'll have midterms in 3rd week!!!

Bang for the buck

Well, compared to other schools, UCLA is middle priced. Obviously, it is going to cost way more than a community college and a state university. However, compared to private colleges and ivy leagues, UCLA is way cheaper. As far as spending money at school, the UCLA Store and UCLA Hilltop over price their things a little.

Am enjoying being here

I LOVE IT HERE! It is my home away from home. I just can't get enough of it. Westwood is the place to be! Currently, I am back home from the summer, and I just feel a little out of place. I am not saying that I can't identify with the people here, but I just feel like I don't belong anymore. I am used to another type of environment, and that is Bruin World.

Am learning a lot

For once in my life, I have learned to be more independent. Although I am not going to remember everything professors say, I always have something in the back of my head that allows me to keep those words of wisdom. Also, being from South Central, I was always used to a certain type of group. Once going to UCLA, I learned that there is so many things that I don't know about other cultures that I should discover.

Jessica

12/28/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

14 out of 14 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Students who seek a college that has top-ranked academics, a large student body, a metropolitan city, school-spirit, sports, social life, great resources for internships and volunteer work, and a strong alumni-base will love UCLA.

Tips for prospective students

#1 is to take high school seriously and get good grades. For extracurriculars, do not swamp yourself with tons of things. Choose a few that you really enjoy, and try to gain leadership experience. As for the application, use your essays to portray who you are. If you are true to yourself and to admissions, they will respond well to your application and understand if you are a right fit for the college. As long as you are truthful to yourself, you will end up at a college that fits your needs and interests. Good luck!

Bang for the buck

For a school that is known around the world, UCLA is definitely a cheaper option than attending many other such schools that are often private. Although you must be a California resident in order to get the reduced price, otherwise you will be paying about the average amount for a private institution.

Am enjoying being here

I love being here. UCLA is exactly what a person expects college to be. Academics is important, but there is also much more. People are friendly, our sports teams are the best in the country (we have the most national championships out of any other college: 106), we live in LA so there are tons of things to do off campus, our dorm food is the best, and our campus is beautiful. Overall I am really happy with my choice to attend UCLA.

Am learning a lot

I am learning so much at UCLA and it is all thanks to their wide range of studies. I came to UCLA because I didn't know what I wanted to study specifically and I figured going to a school that had so many options would be best. Over the past two years I have found it really is. I have had very good experiences with Professors and TAs who really do care about their students and their performance and mastery of material that in turn inspires my academic endeavors. Also there are many different resources for outside internships, volunteer opportunities, and work experiences that are extremely crucial post-graduation.

Stephen from San Diego, CA

06/20/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

13 out of 13 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Great for the dedicated student--a lot of classes you will be taking in your first/second years will be weeder classes. A determined and dedicated student will tough these out and it'll be smooth sailing. The student who wants to have fun on the side: if you're really uptight and set on graduating in two years, UCLA might not be for you. There are many other schools in the nation where you'll be surrounded be people such as yourself. However, if you're the kind of student that can study hard and play hard, UCLA is where you want to be. The undeclared majors: UCLA excels in so many fields, that it's okay to be admitted as an undeclared. When you finally do make up your mind, UCLA will pull through and you'll still have an awesome experience. It's also nice because you have two years to declare your major, and until then, you can go around the board and get a taste for them all.

Tips for prospective students

Apply for external scholarships aplenty! Your chances of getting awarded from the financial aid office are pretty low since there are a lot of students enrolled. It also helps if you already have good study habits established. I didn't establish them until the end of my first year, and it's reflected in my GPA. It's best if you can study the material throughout the quarter and spend the time before the tests reviewing. The best students aren't the ones that memorize the most, but the ones that can draw connections between the concepts they learn in class and use these connections to recall the facts they need to know.

Bang for the buck

Unfortunately, the cost of attending UCLA (even for California residents) is on the rise. The worst part is that they charge you outrageous fees and you have no choice but to pay them. If you do decide to protest a certain fee, expect your account to be put on hold. There are a lot of executives getting paid astronomical amounts while a lot of students are taking a hit to the wallet. Another aspect that detracts from this Bang for the buck category is that you're paying to take classes with professors that barely speak English. It's frustrating and absolutely annoying, but it's the sad reality. Especially if you're an engineer, expect to take classes with professors that only picked up English after they graduated from their respective universities.

Am enjoying being here

While most of the classes that I take for my engineering major tend to make me miserable during the day, the rest of the day is absolutely enjoyable. There are plenty of club and intramural sports to partake in, and if sports aren't your thing, there are even more student organizations to be a part of. I am personally involved in an organization called Grace on Campus (GOC), and it is absolutely amazing. The number of good friends (as opposed to acquaintances) that you make is astonishing. This is because of how easy it is to get together during the week since everybody lives on or around campus. UCLA's proximity to Santa Monica is also a big bonus. Beach trips are the highlight of my week, especially when you take them with a large group of friends. The fun you can have at the beach and at the mall afterward is unmatched. While getting off campus has its merits, fun can be had while staying at UCLA. You can play badminton, volleyball, and other sports in the John Wooden Center (our gym). The gym also offers a myriad of classes such as hip hop, surfing, and hiking adventures.

Am learning a lot

Here at UCLA, each quarter only lasts 11 weeks (10 weeks of instruction and 1 week of finals). In these short quarters, it feels like information is being constantly crammed into your head by three or four different professors. Most of the time, it isn't enough just to attend lecture; it takes a lot of studying throughout the week to make sure that you understand the lecture materials. You really need to make sure you have a good grasp of the concepts because professors really like to check that you do via midterms and finals that make you rack your brain. While difficult, these examinations really help you gauge where you are in the class and how much more time you should be spending reviewing that material. Most importantly, I am learning how to study and how to be a student at a bustling research university, not just facts about organic chemistry or equations and steps to solve differential equations.

Liz

Self-motivated, outgoing students who appreciate a balance between academic excellence and serious fun.

Tips for prospective students

Succeeding at UCLA is all about balance. There are so many activities and things going on 24/7 that you have to really focus on being organized and getting done everything you need to. This means finding time to study, explore the incredible variety of activities UCLA has to offer, and enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime social opportunities college affords. Classes are tough, and it’s important to realize that it’s not like high school – it’s ok to get a B. Almost everyone does. With this in mind, it’s important to not get too overwhelmed with school. Don’t forget to take time to relax and have fun. Get outside and enjoy that California sunshine. And last but certainly not least, DO NOT PROCRASTINATE. If you slack off for a week on the quarter system, you will literally never catch up.

Bang for the buck

Public schools across the country are feeling the pressure from ever-decreasing state and national education budgets, and UCLA is no exception. Tuition rates are rising, despite the best efforts of the student association. Out-of-state costs are nearing those of private schools, while in-state tuition is still a really good bargain. For a school as renowned as UCLA, however, the increased cost is still worth the experiences you get at this school and the prestige you acquire once you graduate. There are still a variety of free services offered to students – from academic assistance to a world-class gym to a truly awesome recreation center with three pools, a sand volleyball court, a garden, and gigantic lawns strewn with lounge chairs. UCLA also does a pretty good job of offering students chances to make their education as cost-efficient as possible. There’s a great variety in dorms and meal plans, but even the cheapest option - living in a residence hall (as I currently do) – is bearable, and honestly an unforgettable collegiate experience. There’s also plenty of employment opportunities on campus, particularly if you have work-study eligibility. All in all, UCLA is still one of the nation’s greatest public universities, and it offers a top-tier education without (quite) the top-tier price.

Am enjoying being here

The balance between academics and student life is what makes UCLA so beloved to its students and alumni. It is partially a factor of the type of student that is drawn here – the kind of student who cares equally about succeeding in school and having a really, really good time while doing it. The school’s location in the heart of Los Angeles gives students the opportunity to do literally anything they can imagine – from spending the day surfing at Venice Beach to going to concerts on the Sunset Strip – but UCLA is, ultimately, pretty self-contained. While most students leave Westwood on occasion, there is almost everything you could ever need within walking distance of campus. Social life for first- and second-years focuses on the frat houses, which offer parties most Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. They’re exactly what you’d expect from frat parties – loud music, lots of people and lots of not-so-innocent fun. Older students enjoy the variety of nightlife that Westwood has to offer, as well as the famous bars and nightclubs that the greater Los Angeles area has to offer. While nightlife is a big part of life at UCLA, the beauty of such a large school is that there is always something going on which involves literally any interest you can imagine. From club Quidditch practice to playing volleyball at the gorgeous recreation center to watching world-class plays and performances (often for free!), there is literally something for everyone. Many students take advantage of the Southern California weather and the school’s gorgeous campus to work, play and nap on any of the school’s many lawns. While the coursework is definitely challenging, I’m not exaggerating when I say that many of my fellow students refer to UCLA as one big, counselor-free summer camp.

Am learning a lot

UCLA offers a great balance between being a challenging school and not being impossible. The classes are tough, and the quarter system makes it absolutely essential to stay on top of things. Classes last only ten weeks, so a missed lecture or a skipped homework assignment put you very far behind. That being said, the quarter system also has its perks, as it lets you take a wider variety of classes and get through the boring pre-reqs to your (much more exciting) upper-division classes that much sooner. UCLA offers a great balance between being a challenging school and not being impossible. The classes are tough, and the quarter system makes it absolutely essential to stay on top of things. Classes last only ten weeks, so a missed lecture or a skipped homework assignment put you very far behind. That being said, the quarter system also has its perks, as it lets you take a wider variety of classes and get through the boring pre-reqs to your (much more exciting) upper-division classes that much sooner. The basic, general education classes that nearly everyone take are a little rough - they often have upwards of 300 students in a lecture, and the extremely competitive ones set curves very high. Weekly discussion sections with TA's, however, let you go over the material in a group of about 20 and discuss any questions you have. By attending these sections and pursuing the wide range of academic services – there is free tutoring in nearly any subject, as well as a writing center – you can succeed in even the more difficult classes. The teachers at UCLA are usually pretty great, and often at the forefront of the research in their field (the advantages of going to a big research university!) They are usually very approachable, and many go out of their way to hold extra office hours before big tests. The downside of UCLA’s size is that students have to be very self-motivated. While some teachers give credit for homework, attendance is hardly ever take in lecture and grades are based almost entirely on midterms and finals. How, and whether, you learn the material is ultimately up to you! For a self-motivated student, however, UCLA offers a great range of interesting, challenging classes taught by intelligent professors.

JOANNA from Fullerton, CA

08/10/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

11 out of 11 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

This school is great for students who don't mind huge classes with hundreds of students. It's great for students who are a bit more independent and can push themselves to work hard and go out of their way to seek what's necessary to be better.

Tips for prospective students

You need to come prepared to work at a faster pace than high school. You need to learn to manage your time wisely. Procrastination will be your enemy so you must force yourself to keep up with all your classes and the work that it demands. You must always study even when you think that you don't need to and always get help when you are confused.

Bang for the buck

College in general is a bit expensive and this university is no different. L.A. is expensive as well so be prepared to spend. Most professors try to cut down on student spending by not requiring so many books. Financial aid is extremely helpful and works well with the students who need help. But in the end it is all worth it.

Am enjoying being here

The campus is beautiful and the atmosphere is great. You feel extremely comfortable. The classes are interesting, the professors are helpful. The college experience is great and I actually enjoy college alot!

Am learning a lot

I have learned the most interesting facts of my entire academic education. College has opened up new interests for me and has made learning more interesting and more enjoyable. Not only am I learning new exciting information, I am able to remember what I have learned.

Elizabeth from San Pedro, CA

looking to be challenged academically but also wanting to enjoy the overall college experience.

Tips for prospective students

STUDY! Study, study! Make your own outlines on all the reading you do, you are your own teacher. Professors do not give hand- outs, review sheets, homework, etc. YOU do. But then you learn so much if you do these things and develop great work ethic.

Bang for the buck

Sure, it's a public school but due to budget cuts,the costs just keep increasing. Boooo!!

Am enjoying being here

Yes! I really am! It's a love.hate relationship. I have met tons of really cool different people from all sorts of backgrounds, and I've grown up so much in just one year. However, UCLA really sucks all of your extra-social time out of you! It's really hard to schedule both joning clubs/sororities and the like AND school. I'm still trying to figure it out.

Am learning a lot

I can definitely say that being at UCLA for about a quarter and one half has literally changed me, and my study habits. This school is competitive and tough, in no light manner. At the same time, if you work hard, the rewards are tremendous, and that's what people are here for (or they should be) above everything else; to learn. Everything is really fast-paced like another student said, you have 10 weeks to learn all the material! There;s no time to slack off, feel lazy, because before you realize it you can fall behind, and once you fall behind it's VERY hard to get back on track (trust me, I should know!) However, classes are great! You have classes with professors who thoroughly know their material, they do not just read a teaching manual and memorize it,they actually do research,experiments,etc. on these things! First-hand accounts! I had this really cool physics teacher who did all sorts of wacky experiments in front of us,and his passion for physics really motivated me. Apply! It's totally worth it :)

Start on your application early! Make sure you spell check it and have others read your personal essay. Also, come visit campus and take a tour!

Bang for the buck

Even with the recent tuition increase, UCLA is still cheaper for California students then going to schools of similar stature.

Am enjoying being here

Coming from Northern California, the weather is wonderful. I love wearing shorts and a t-shirt in December! Making friends is definitely easy. Residential Assistants plan events for the floor at the beginning of the term which helps for making friends. There are tons of activities always happening which makes things easy to get involved.

Am learning a lot

The quarter system is fast but it is nice not wasting time in school. Be prepared to work hard for ten weeks and the adjustment is easy. Classes are mostly manageable. Professors are always willing to help you.

Kevin from Thousand Oaks, CA

12/19/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

8 out of 10 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

This is great university for students that love or at least don't mind the city and want to explore different activities or continue in their current activities. You should also be a student that is willing to work hard because unless you are going to be doing a liberal arts degree then you are in for a pretty tough set of classes. This is definitely one of the hardest UC's class wise. Example, the averages for the math class I was in last quarter, which is for engineering, was a 50% on the first midterm, and a 60% on the second midterm. Math and science classes are both curved though so that person who got a 50% on the midterm will most likely end up with a C in the class if they also got the average on the second midterm.

Tips for prospective students

Wok hard in all of your classes and make sure that you get involve with some group, whether that is your dorm floor, intramural sports, clubs, whatever, one of the greatest aspects of this university is the amount of different student groups they have, so take advantage of them.

Bang for the buck

I think that pretty much every college is way overpriced, except maybe community college. Having said that I do think that for the amount you spend, between $25,000-$30,000 a year if you live in the dorms, with the tuition increase is a lot better than paying for a private university since UCLA offers just about everything. It is a lot cheaper if you are able to commute though because the main cost is the dorms, which is somewhere between $10,000-$13,000 a year. Keep in mind that the tuition is now around $10,000 a year because they increased it 32%.

Am enjoying being here

I really enjoy being at UCLA for several reasons. First off, there are many different types of student that go here that really diversifies the community. I love that UCLA is on the quarter system because you only have to take ten weeks of a class. The greatest aspect of UCLA is that is basically a city in and of itself, just add a grocery store and you are set. This school offers everything, literally. There are tons of different student groups on campus for all of your different interests. They also have club sport teams and intramural sports teams so if you are an athlete you can still do what you love even if you are not part of the schools official team. Another great thing about UCLA is that it is in Westwood, which is an awesome city area with tons of places to eat. There is also a marina that is close by where you can enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking. The mountains are not that far off either if you enjoy hiking. Santa Monica beach is also about twenty minutes away by car. Bottom line is that this is a great university that offers just about everything. The only thing that might deter someone from going here is if they do not enjoy a city atmosphere.

Am learning a lot

First off, the professors hear are very intelligent people that know the subject they are teaching. That being said, most of the professors are not that good at teaching. This is mainly because they are trying to teach their material to one hundred to three hundred students, at least for lower division courses. If you attend their office hours you definitely are able to learn a lot more than during lecture. But some of the professors are in fact terrible, no matter how much they know, and this is somewhat unexpected because you would think that at such a great university they would always have excellent professors.

Jessica from Nor Cal

11/16/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

7 out of 7 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Basically, if you were admitted, you can succeed here. UCLA emphasizes both academics and community service, so if you are hard-working and studious yet also like to have fun and make a difference in the community, this is the school for you. The most important thing is to keep an open mind, whether it's to different social and cultural perspectives or new activities and sports you have never tried before.

Tips for prospective students

1. Choose classes you think you'll be interested in. 2. If you're unsure about your major, take a variety of classes your first year so you can satisfy your GE's while getting a better sense of which field you want to get into before you spend the next 3 years taking classes for a major you don't think you're interested in. 3. Find at least one club or organization you can enjoy. It's a great way to make friends because they will all be sharing your interest! 4. Try out Rieber's Feast. There's a line, but it's worth the wait. 5. If you have questions, ask as soon as possible! Talk to counselors, other students, or the Ask Me! booth that's always on campus.

Bang for the buck

Well, tuition is going up, but it's going up everywhere else, too, so for in-state students, UCLA is a great deal compared to private schools which cost twice as much for roughly the same level of education. A really nice perk, though, is that UCLA students get large discounts or even free admission for certain major events, such as movie premieres or live shows. We even got to see 50/50 before it came out for everyone else!

Am enjoying being here

The rooms are comfortable, the food is GREAT, and the campus is beautiful. Recently, the new dining hall at Rieber, called Feast, opened up, and the Pan-Asian food there is AMAZING. The trek up and down the Hill is tiresome, but it does give you exercise for the day and is more than compensated by the delicious dining hall food. There are also lots of opportunities to get involved and meet new people. While the number of organizations and clubs you could join is overwhelming, finding the right niche really completes your experience at UCLA, not to mention allows you to enjoy yourself and take a break from classes and homework. While a large campus may make you feel like you're just a number, clubs--especially the sports, culture, and hobby kind--give you a sense of belonging, and you feel like you are part of the community rather than a number.

Am learning a lot

I am a freshmen this year, but the classes I'm taking have been pretty interesting and very informative so far. You just have to take the classes you think you'll be interested in, especially when taking the GE's. It really adds to the experience, and you'll learn a lot more that way because it's something you want to know more about. Even for the classes you may not be totally fascinated with--this applies mostly to the lower division science and math courses--if you take advantage of all the resources provided, you should be able to get a lot out of the class and establish the foundation for more interesting upper division courses. In addition, I am learning a lot outside of the classroom, as UCLA holds a lot of workshops that cover topics such as how to improve your study habits, search for scholarships, and get into research. Just keep your eyes peeled for the opportunities, and you will learn a lot!

Katie

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

7 out of 7 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The only big thing to worry about is theft which is preventable.

Great for these types of students

LGBT All types of Asian Sports (fans and athletes)

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is an inverted fountain in South Campus where at your UCLA Freshman Orientation, you get Bruintized by saying a little oath and extending your right hand into the fountain. However, anytime you touch the water before you graduate from UCLA, it adds an extra quarter for you to graduate. The best part is when you finally graduate and just jump in the fountain with all your friends who just graduated with you! People are just sitting in there as if they're in a hot tub. Some even go snorkeling!

Bang for the buck

Westwood, which is rest next to UCLA, can be pretty expensive. However you have access to nearly anywhere in Los Angeles. Downtown LA is a place where you can find treasures at a cheap price.

What to do for fun

Explore Westwood, LA! Go to the beach, there's so many choices--Venice Beach, Santa Monica Beach, Malibu. You can get to the beach by hopping on a bus for just nearly 35 cents. Los Angeles is home to several artists and museums are only a few bus stops away.

Food and Dining

The food is amazing! It's like a buffet and the lines are not bad, they're practically ephemeral. I do hear for some people that the food gets tiring, but it's not the same thing every day. If you love waffles for breakfast and Italian for dinner, and even a variety of Asian food, you'll love UCLA food. There's even Jamba Juice and a Carl's Jr. and lots of other fast food restaurants and cafes.

Dorm Life

The dorms are where you can start a new social life. People usually get really close to those living on the same floor as them--like really close. Having a hall is the best way to be more social. Everyone just seems so friendly already.

Academic Rigor

Just because UCLA is a fun and amazing place doesn't mean it's easy to get A's. People are accepted because of the brilliant minds they have. Students earn the A's. It's only hard if you don't put the effort in. You can miss a lot in one day.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid to shake your tail feathers weather they be blue, green, spotted, or striped, or if you don't even have any! No one will judge you at UCLA. There's a group, a club for nearly everything. Be true to who you are and at UCLA you will found out more of who you are.

In three sentences

First of all, UCLA is in one of the most amazing cities by far! Los Angeles has so much to offer within its grasps and if you think Los Angeles is boring then that is your fault. I would give UCLA a 9 out of 10 just because it is so diverse and everyone is so accepting in the Bruin Family.

If you want to go here, go here. If you don't, then consider going wherever you think you'll like going. You'll excel more where you enjoy yourself, right?

Bang for the buck

Financial aid'll make it so you only pay what you need to, but everything on campus is pretty expensive. Whatever you'll pay out in the world, UCLA charges double for...

Am enjoying being here

The campus is really nice, and as long as you give it some love, it'll love you back. You just need to put a little effort into it, and you'll like it.

Am learning a lot

The teachers here are a lot better than in community college. That said, I can't find many programs that allow students to learn any faster than the rest of their classes, which means that students who learn really quickly may get bored... As I am...

Sarah from Los Angeles, CA

06/20/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

6 out of 6 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

This school is great for students who are: - social - love BIG colleges (although the campus isn't that huge once you get used to it) - proactive and hardworking (academics ARE pretty tough so you need to take advantage of office hours!!) - can handle fast-paced classes, and sometimes boring lectures (don't fall asleep!) - will take advantage of opportunities for extracurricular work (there's countless research, volunteer, work, and athletic opportunities on campus)

Tips for prospective students

- Make sure to buy/rent used textbooks from Amazon or other sites or friends! Research around for the cheapest book out there, or ask other students who have already taken the class if the book is even necessary. - Take advantage of office hours and GO TO EVERY CLASS. Try to avoid playing catch-up and utilize your weekends to catch up to your classes if you've missed any. - Research online for past exams from your professor if possible and make sure to take them as practice! Sororities/Frats often have test banks, and there is also a student test bank at SAC, so make sure you check out practice exams because professors (especially for math) tend to use the same pattern of questions. - APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID FOR SUMMER if you qualify! Summer school is way cheaper, and if you also work at front desks of dorm buildings during summer, they'll give you a deal where you get housing and food for summer for only about $300-$600. (Way better than subletting for $500/month) - Find a good place to study. Studying with friends is great, but you don't actually get any studying done. Biomedical buildings, Powell, and the De Neve Dungeon are incredibly quiet places to study. However, if you study at Powell, STAY AWAY FROM COUCHES. Something about them make you fall asleep instantly. - Don't bring a printer! Utilize the free pages you get at dorm buildings, and certain buildings on campus also allow free printing (such as SAC, except there's always a line there) - LOCK YOUR DOOR. People get their things stolen from their dormrooms and strangers can come into your room since the campus is open. If your door is deadbolted, anyone (not just other students) can get in. - DON'T leave insulting videos on Youtube. 'nuff said. - Don't gossip or hate on people you don't like! The campus is huge. Meet new friends if you don't appreciate the people around you. - ENJOY YOUR FRESHMAN YEAR! This is the one year you're allowed to be crazy and stupid, so take advantage and try new things! (But don't lost focus on your academics!) - Go outside of campus whenever you can! UCLA can become quite a bubble, and sometimes I forget about the outside world. Take the blue bus (35 cents with a Bruin Card) to Santa Monica, catch a movie and eat sushi in Westwood, eat great Korean BBQ in Ktown.

Bang for the buck

Tuition costs is on the rise, but hopefully I get enough scholarships to cover the costs! I have to say that this year, I realized that paying for dorms is more about paying for the experience rather than the actual room. The rooms are pretty small, unless you live in Hitch. To be honest, if you take the initiative to join clubs, where you live has no role in your social life. Whether you live in Dykstra, which is considered the most social for freshman, or Hedrick/Hitch, which is the most quiet/isolated, you will have a social life if you join clubs/sororities/fraternities/dance groups. With 14P, each meal is about $8, which seems incredibly expensive if you're using a swipe for a smoothie. However, by the end of the quarter, you usually have plenty left over (unless you're crazy about food like me, then you end up begging for swipes from your friends) and you can eat as much as you want. For freshman and transfers, I'd say that there is absolutely nothing like living on campus. Classes are incredibly close, friends are even closer, and there's always something to do.

Am enjoying being here

The social world is great here. I love to dance, but because I'm not familiar with all of the dance teams here, I instead joined smaller, short-term dance groups such as KASA (Korean American Student Association). I absolutely loved spending hours and hours in the parking lots practicing and learning new dances and meeting new people. Furthermore, I am a Chi Alpha Delta member (Asian Greek sorority), and the girls I have met are amazing. Not only have I met other freshmen girls, but I have also met numerous upperclassmen who have given me so much advice and support to help me towards new opportunities for my education. However, the absolute best part of UCLA is the incredible food. From dining halls to Mexican/Asian food at Rendezvous, you can get delicious food anywhere on campus until 2am. You can even find a BCafe (Bruin Cafe) music video on Youtube that students put up. (It's that good. :D) If you're not into the same hobbies as I am, there are countless other opportunities to find people who are interested in the same things you are. My roommate was part of a radio show, which I found incredible. Also, there are numerous free concerts put on by CEC for students at UCLA. This past year, I went to small Immortal Technique and Diplo concerts at my school, and how many students can say that!?

Am learning a lot

I am definitely learning a lot here. Not only am I able to pursue my education in mathematics (as a Mathematics/Applied Sciences major), but I am also learning to be independent and manage my time well. I've learned to take advantages of ALL of the study tools here, such as going to every office hour available to get homework help, listening to online podcasts, and getting extra tutoring at Covel. My love for math has grown, and although the quarter flies by and it gets difficult to keep up at times, I am loving the challenge.

Elizabeth from Clifton, VA

Independent learners. People who learn very quickly. Athletes. People with diverse interests.

Tips for prospective students

If you are considering UCLA I would say you definitely need to look in to what major you are doing, certain departments are much stronger than others in my opinion. I would also say think seriously about how much help you want from your school along the way. UCLA is a huge school and hugely sought after. They don't have the time or resources to walk each student through what they need to do or how to help them to graduate. There are lots of students who end up staying for a fifth year because they either couldn't get into the classes they needed or they didn't plan their schedule well. Also be ready for the quarter system by prepping for your classes before classes start. 10 weeks flys by, you cannot let anything slide and think Oh I will do that later or I have plenty of time to learn that. The classes are hard and the tests are difficult so you need to prepare.

Bang for the buck

For me, UCLA is extremely expensive because I pay out of state tuition and the cost continues to rise each year. So while the school offers a lot, it costs way too much. For in-state students however I would rate the School at a four or five.

Am enjoying being here

The campus is located in a beautiful location and there are so many people from all over the world here. I love the diversity of the people on campus. There are lots of great volunteer groups to get involved in and meet people through. I found CHAMPs which is a mentorship program and have not only enjoyed doing really rewarding work for kids in LA, but I have met some of my closest friends through the group.

Am learning a lot

As with any school, how much you learn from your classes will depend on how much time and studying you put in. That said, there are some excellent professors at UCLA who really care about teaching their students. Take advantage of the opportunity! Go to office hours, get to know your professors and TA's. Most of them are really smart and interesting people. There are also tons of extracurricular opportunities for you to learn from. There is tons of research being conducted at UCLA so be persistent and get a position working for a professor. It isn't easy, but the opportunity is there and not just for science majors, for any major.

Michelle from Placentia, CA

02/01/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

5 out of 5 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

UCLA is great for students who want to learn in a place with a high caliber of students and professors, who are ambitious to explore endless opportunities. It is also great for students who like a fast paced learning environment, which the quarter system provides!

Tips for prospective students

At UCLA it is important to take initiative to get involved. Since it is so large, it is possible to get lost in the crowd, but if you make an effort to get involved you will have such a great experience! Also, since the school year is divided into 4 quarters classes go by FAST! Therefore, it is important to stay on top of your work and not procrastinate, which can be easy to do since there are so many fun events to keep busy with!

Bang for the buck

The value is excellent as UCLA is much cheaper than private universities, but still offers the same quality of an education.

Am enjoying being here

I absolutely love being here because there are so many opportunities the large school can bring. Although the size can be intimidating, it is a benefit because you can't make a small school larger, but you can always make a large school smaller. By getting involved in one of the many clubs and activities available, you get connected into smaller circles. Plus, the location in LA right next to Westwood, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and Santa Monica make for many fun excursions at students fingertips.

Am learning a lot

UCLA is a place of top academics. All classes are taught by actual professors. While lectures are big, they are broken into discussion sections with around 25 students where more students can interact more. Further the professors are very approachable during office hours and some even have virtual office hours where you can ask questions online!

Son from Santa Ana, CA

Who are not afraid of hard works, a lot of great programs that just need to be explored.

Tips for prospective students

I recommend you to move out of your dorm by the 2nd year because it can be quite expensive living in the dorm. It cost me about $12,000 to live in the dorm each year, but now I pay about half of that in the apartment. Take class that you have interest in so that you can get more out of it. Don't be afraid to interact with the professors and the TAs. Take a chance and explore something new, even now everyday I learn something new about the campus, the student life and even the school overall.

Bang for the buck

Not so much because everything is getting more and more expensive. The fee hike recently has raised our tuition by about 30% since last year. With other budget cut, more and more programs are being cut, creating less diversity on campus. Not only are programs being cut, classes are also being cut, leading to a more overcrowding lecture hall environment. Overall if you can look pass all of these downfall, it is a pretty decent school moneywise.

Am enjoying being here

The student life here is very colorful. There are many activities that are always being put up. It can range from concerts, art galleries, culture shows, movie screening, rallies, and even student elections can be fun. Most of these events are put up by student organizations, but funded by the school. So these events are geared toward the students so it will most likely be enjoyable.

Am learning a lot

The professors at this school actually care a lot about the students. They actually would take time out of their schedules to help the students understand more about the subjects. Although it can be hard to approach a professor, but it can be quite rewarding in the end. You just need to gather the courage and not be afraid to speak up and seek out help. Not only will you learning the normal school subjects here, you can also learn a lot of life skills just by interacting with the different individuals that are presented here on campus: researchers, professors, student organizations, and many other entities.

Alexis from Arbuckle, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

5 out of 5 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

UCLA is a research university meaning that sometimes the professor is more focused on their reasearch than teaching a class but there are ways around it and not all teachers are like that.

Tips for prospective students

Visit the campus because UCLA (believe it or not) is not for everyone so talk to friends that are going to UCLA or students there and don't be afraid to ask questions.

Bang for the buck

Im ganna keep it real...its pretty expensive but that's just the uc system. My advise is to apply to many scholarships and a wide range of them. Also apply for fafsa regardless of your social situation because you could be supprised how much they give you to help pay for college.

Will enjoy being here

UCLA is in the perfect location to go shopping, to the beach, movies with friends, etc. The weather is also amazing there.

Will learn a lot

I've been asking around alot and one thing that people always say is that you will get an amazing education at UCLA. Ill be there next quarter to find that out for my self.

Dominique from Los Angeles, CA

There are over 1,000 Student organizations. There is something for everyone. Plenty of free movie screenings, concerts, and games for people to enjoy.

Great for these types of students

People who are involved, love sports, and like a fast pace life.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is an Undie Run every quarter on Wednesday of Finals week.

What to do for fun

Go to a free movie screening, concert, or any event. Explore westwood. Take a bus to Santa Monica.

Food and Dining

We have the fourth best food in the nation!!!!!1

Dorm Life

Dorm life depends on what one makes of it. Residential Assistants on each floor offer opportunities to bring residents together and have fun but one has to take the opportunity. Whatever you do, do not get a triple unless you plan on not being in your room often.

Academic Rigor

It is all what one makes it. It depends on one's major how hard the classes are going to be. If one is a South Campus Major (science or math major), expect to be stressed and swamped with work. North Campus Majors (social sciences) are not as bad. Regardless of one's major, there are plenty of Academic support programs so anyone can succeed.

Tips for prospective students

Everything is fast. There is no time for falling behind in hw because it is the quarter system not the semester system. Stay on top of your work. If you are lazy now, UCLA is not the school for you.

In three sentences

It is a great school for those who like to be involved. The campus is beautiful. The people are mostly friendly.

Anonymous, from Orange County, CA

12/20/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 4 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Those who want more out of there college experience then a degree. Those who can handle a hectic lifestyle, again, so many events on campus. Those who thrive on competition. Many classes, especially science classes, grade on a curve, but you have to remember that there are 200-300 students per lecture. Those willing to meet new people. You have to put yourself out there. This school has many, MANY students.

Tips for prospective students

Start looking for scholarships now! You can off-set many of the cost by looking for scholarships. Visit the campus! You have to get a feel for the place to see if you fit in. Do not just go to UCLA for its prestige or you will not enjoy your time. For those who do come and are on their parent's insurance, fees can be off-set by waiving your SHIP insurance, just make sure your insurance covers you in this area. Live on the campus at least one year. This is a great chance to meet new people, since your classes tend to be huge lectures in which you don't always see the same people twice. Plus, the food, pretty good. And you also get to understand what people mean when they complain about the Hill. You will have to do a lot of walking to get around the campus. If you don't like exercise, this is not the school for you! There are a lot of steps, and to get to where you live is a good 10 minute walk from the bottom of the hills. Take advantage of all the opportunities at UCLA! There are so many ways to get involved and have the money you paid work or you. Take advantage of the programs they have on the Hill if you live there, go see the free movies and guest speakers, use UCLA to help better yourself! TAs make a difference. TAs (teaching assistants) are the ones who grade your work. Not all TAs are good though, so be prepared. If you need help, go to your TAs, since majority of them do work with you. Science TAs, however, aren't always the best in terms of actual teaching. Don't forget your studies, both in High School and in college. It's very easy to get Senioritis in high school, but know that this is one of the hardest public schools to get into. As for college, there are so many events happening at UCLA, you have to remember to that classes come first!

Bang for the buck

I live in state, so my tuition isn't too high, but housing is pretty steep. Remember, though, if you go to UCLA, you'll be in LA, so expect everything to be a bit higher. The food on the Hill, however, is good, but can get repetitive. If you’re a vegan/vegetarian, you will always be able to eat. Prices on campus tend to be a bit high, but Westwood has majority of what you will need at decent prices. As stated before, the public transportation is fairly cheap, and seems much smarter to use then your own car if you live on or near campus (parking permits=$600 a year). However, there are a lot of free activities ad resources around UCLA, if you know where to look, including free printing, free internet on campus, and many free giveaways on Bruinwalk.

Am enjoying being here

There is always something to do. Free movie screenings (highly recommended), the UCLA aquatic center, the gym, and a plethora of activities that are happening either on campus or on the hill will always give you something to do. If, for some reason, you can't find something to do on the campus itself, you can always go into Westwood or take one of the many buses to many of the exciting places around the area. For UCLA students, some of the buses give a reduced rate. The weather is normally reasonable, but when it rains, it can make the steps hazardous. The main problem weather wise is wind. When he Santa Anna winds pick-up, you have to watch yourself whenever you’re outside. Growing up in similar conditions, I'm not entirely sure how people who aren't use to the dry winds will handle it. One more thing, WATCH OUT FOR SQUIRRELS!

Am learning a lot

I have just finished a quarter at UCLA, and I already feel like I've acquired so much more knowledge. The classes themselves are taught by professors who have incredible knowledge about their subjects. But that's just part of the experience. UCLA is a school where there is always an activity going on somewhere, whether it’s a guest speaker on campus or an awareness activity in the dorms, you're constantly learning about a vast array of new subjects that you have never been exposed to before.

happygolucky

ALL. It is so diverse that you will find your niche. Good luck on your college application/search!

Tips for prospective students

1. Go on blog.rateyourprofessors.com and see what past students have to say about the professors. Avoid the bad ones and save your GPA! 2. Take a cluster, because they really, really improve reading and writing skills. They also get rid of GEs fast. I am currently taking the Multi Perspective on Myth, and it is definitely worthwhile. 3. If you don't want the freshman 15, eat lunch at 11 and dinner at 5 if you can! It's what I did! :) 4. Get a smartphone or an iphone. You. Will. Need. It. 5. Try to build a good relationship with your roommates--it will be beneficial to you all. 6. Take advantage of all the clubs and join a couple! 7. Try the De Neve Late Night at least once. The spicy chicken is delicious! 8. Many people comment on how the plazas are not as social as the halls, but I am having a great time in the plaza. It has AC and the people are very social. I think it just depends on the floor, not the dorm. 9.Enroll in the Honors Program early. The requirements are not high in the beginning and...why not? 10. BE AS SOCIAL AS POSSIBLE. You will meet wonderful, sincere, and incredibly bright students...and life long friends as well. :)

Bang for the buck

UCLA is cheaper for in state students, even though the tuition is on the rise... but you should still come and visit to see if the school is right for you. (FYI: THE CAMPUS IS GORGEOUS! AND THE FOOD IS...oh my... my stomach...ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS! We have four dining halls, and one just opened called Rieber Feast, which is all Asian Cuisine. We also have several cafes, ranging from Mexican to Chinese to Italian take out. Life can't get any better. )

Am enjoying being here

UCLA is awesome. It barely rains here and the sun is usually always out. But it does get chilly at night so don't forget to bring thick jackets! Many events happen, such as concerts and movie premieres. The Promenade, which is a shopping center, is located close by, along with the Santa Monica beach. You will never be bored at UCLA. There is always something fun you can do. Because of the large school and its diversity, there are many, many clubs you can join. Choose a few and invest in them! I personally joined the Association of Chinese Americans and the Asian Pacific Health Corporation, and the involvement is very different from high school. The events and projects are on a larger scale, thus making an even bigger impact.

Am learning a lot

If you pay attention in class, you will learn a LOT. UCLA's professors are very competent and the classes are challenging. You will not be disappointed. Make sure you visit your professors/TAs during their office hours. I guarantee you that you will learn even more than you did in their lectures and discussion sessions. And, it is also a great way to get to know them even better, and maybe ask them for a letter of rec at a later time...

Kevin

ucla is located in a very safe part of west los angeles, surrounded by brentwood, beverly hills, santa monica, and bel air. in addition, it has its own campus pd to protect students.

Clubs and Activities

with so many clubs to choose from (over 950), there is a niche for everyone. the culture here is diverse, creative, and inspiring. it includes clubs involving: sports, music (a cappella or instrumental), community service, pre-professional (i.e. business, law, medicine, engineering, etc), cooking, student government, debate, and much more.

Great for these types of students

athletic students--the gym is one of the best i've seen and there are so many club and intramural sports available for those of us that are competitive. musicians/dancers - ucla has a wonderful program for music and dance. it is also well-connected for those that aspire to make this a career. foodies - if you're into food, there is a lot of unique cultural experiences in la to try. well-rounded students - for those applicants that want to attend a college where studying and socializing are very much equal priorities.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

undie run - students run in their underwear during wednesday of finals week to blow off some steam. midnight yell - during finals week, students yell out their windows at midnight to relieve some stress.

Bang for the buck

although ucla has its reputation in athletics, academics, and social life, don't be fooled: having so many options and classmates at this crowded university may make some things overwhelming or daunting. for example, classes are crowded and the student-to-faculty ratio is high. however, the sociable environment, warm weather, and diverse culture make up for this.

What to do for fun

ucla is a social experience--it has over 950 active student organizations that include all sorts of activities and interests. besides the many concerts and sneak peak movies offered at ucla (keep in mind its near hollywood) by students, there are so many things to do off campus that your experience here would be more than worthwhile. consider the santa monica beach/pier, hollywood clubs and bars, greek life, athletics, cinema, and much more!

Food and Dining

while the food in the dorms is arguably the best in the nation, the food on campus and off campus is comparable to any school. there are food chains like subway or panda express, but also many custom food joints too. the best thing about ucla is its location--you have access to the second largest city in the usa, which boasts many fine cuisines and restaurants to explore.

Dorm Life

ucla invests a lot of money and time into its on-campus residential housing. dorm food is consistently rated as one of the best in the nation and facilities are always being renovated and thoroughly repaired to keep up with market standards. because there are so many students at ucla, you have the unique opportunity to meet your peers from a wide variety of backgrounds in a well-connected network.

Academic Rigor

ucla has a reputable name because it offers programs that are top-notch. the faculty members offer relevant and practical curriculum that is well-suited preparation for careers in medicine, humanities, engineering, and other professional fields. because it is so competitive to get in, as ucla has the largest number of applications of any university, the standard is relatively high--so expect that you will be challenged in those classes grading on a curve.

Tips for prospective students

although vulnerable to cuts in state funding, ucla offers one of the best public education programs in the world. because ucla is so well-connected, it is a great school to get a head-start on your career, no matter what field it is. ucla is very social and has a niche for every kind of student, with over 30,000 students!

In three sentences

ucla has a great student atmosphere: it includes great school spirit, rich history, excellent academics and research programs, and a well-rounded student body. it is also situated in west la, which is a great environment in itself to explore social and professional activities post-graduation.

Adriana from Los Angeles, CA

UCLA is basically a setting for hardworking students that can be on top of their schoolwork and being involved within their communities.

Tips for prospective students

First, if you believe that going to college is about going out and partying you start on the wrong foot. College work requires you to stay focused and to be responsible for your work. Do not procrastinate because you will get behind in your work. You need to learn how to manage your time in order to work effectively. Leaving everything til the end will not help especially, for finals. Remember to make your college experience the best because trust me, it will go by very quick.

Bang for the buck

UCLA can be very expensive especially, now that they have raised the yearly budget to $31,000. It is very difficult to deal with all the expenses because fees continue to increase. It made me have second thoughts about my decision to attend UCLA, but I did not want to give up on such an opportunity. I have not received any scholarships which makes it more difficult. It is pretty tough to win a scholarship because you are required to do so much but, it is worth the try. I really hope that in the future the UC Regents take into consideration that many willing students that do not have the financial means have a huge desire for attending a university like UCLA.

Am enjoying being here

At first I really did not like being in such a big university and I kind of felt out of place but after time I figured that it was not bad at all. I love my university and it is a beautiful campus. I think that UCLA is one of its kind. It is a very welcoming place. The faculty are very caring and helpful. This university provides all the resources needed for your success and it is very important to take advantage of such.

Am learning a lot

The first thing I learned here at UCLA was how to be independent. I am not living at home with my parents so, that means that I have to do things for myself. I still have their support but, I cannot depend on them to get things done. I have also learned how to cope with stress and how to manage my time. College can be fun but, you have to stay on top of all your things because if you do not, it will only result as more stress for yourself. I have also learned how to be more tolerant towards other cultures. In my community, most of the population is Hispanic so, I had never been so culturally exposed. I am now understanding other cultures besides my own.

Diana from Fountain Valley, CA

12/20/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

If you're an active person, UCLA is a good place for you. There are so many hills and stairs, it's impossible not to incorporate at least some exercise into your daily routine. There's also a ~3-4 mile path if you want to run the perimeter. There's the John Wooden Center, a gym with recreational classes if you're interested, as well as club and intramural sports. If you want a chance to learn new things, UCLA is the place for you. For example, if you've always wanted to learn how to dance but never got the chance, there's a club that teaches free salsa dancing and another one that does ballroom dancing in Bruin Plaza at night. There are also several competing hip hop teams. This goes for almost every other type of activity you can think of. If you want to be more involved in the community, UCLA is the place for you. The school prides itself on community involvement and the students really make it true. There's a school mentorship program where you can pick up mentees from underprivileged areas and guide them, tutoring programs for homeless/Asian American/Latino American/anything youths. There are cultural clubs that offer all of this, in addition counseling services for peers, tours and overnight-stays for younger kids wondering about college, health fairs, and other activities in specific communities. There are homeless shelters and clinics you can volunteer at, and there’s even a UCLA Volunteer Day where you get a free shirt to help out with various service projects around LA.

Tips for prospective students

Check out BruinWalk.com for teacher reviews before signing up for classes and maybe reviews from upperclassmen to find out if you actually need textbooks for your class. Sometimes professors will post up a list of required textbooks that they will not actually use for the class. If you do need textbooks, buy used ones. Try looking online or seeing what older students are selling rather than buying from the bookstore, where things are generally overpriced. Sell back your old textbooks for money to buy new ones. Take GEs you're interested in because once you're done with those, you may never get a chance to study anything outside of your field again. Look out for what other students say are the easiest classes with the most engaging professors. The professors you take definitely matter, in terms of your grade, what you will take from the class, and whether you leave loving or hating the subject. Involve yourself in different activities, because a lot of what UCLA offers is outside of the classroom. Focusing completely on your studies- although it will generate a good GPA- will mean that you'll miss out on a lot of other things that will arguably contribute more to your development as a person. There's such a wide array of extracurricular activities, there's bound to be something that you'll like. This is also probably where you'll meet the majority of your friends. At the same time, don’t fall behind in school. It’s almost impossible not to fall behind sometimes, but avoid the urge to skip lectures- even if they’re podcasted- and make sure to get notes if you miss class. The quarter system moves so fast, you may be half a quarter of work behind if you’re not careful, and you’ll be sorry when exam time comes.

Bang for the buck

A UC education is getting ridiculously expensive and keeps increasing, so it can be discouraging. A college education is the best investment you can make though, so I wouldn’t bypass it. There’s a lot of aid available, both from the school and the government. If you’re tight on money, consider going to community college for the first two years to finish lower division classes, and transferring. Dorming: If you can do it right off the bat, it is worth it. It puts you in a position to meet a bunch of other excited freshmen like you, and you get to them really well, since you’ll be living with them. You can take classes together, study together, join activities together, etc. Negatives: The dorm rooms are smaller than rooms in other colleges, so it’s a lot of money for a such a tiny living space with communal bathrooms. More space, personal bathrooms= more expensive. Positives: Many new friends, everything is very space efficient. I fit things better in that little dorm room of mine than I do now in my much more spacious apartment room. Convenience in food. Food: The dining halls are buffet-style and you get a certain amount of meal swipes at the beginning to allot throughout the quarter for each meal. The food is supposed to be #1 in the nation, so consider yourself lucky. There’s a large variety and even themed-dinners with even more delicious food every quarter. There’s also “takeout” restaurants if you feel like getting an extra snack or coffee. Again, you are paying for opportunities: the opportunity to learn, the opportunity to meet people and network. UCLA is like a concentrated area of opportunities, and you need to take advantage of what you pay for. Go to school events, don’t waste meal swipes.

Am enjoying being here

I love UCLA, and I don’t know anybody who is not enjoying their time here. Compared to other colleges, it has a relatively active campus and it’s set in Los Angeles. There’s always something to do if you get out of your room. If you dorm, there are floor activities the halls set up. Free food is involved in many. Speaking of food, UCLA has several food places open late for those nights you’re cramming for finals. Café 1919 opens until midnight and has paninis, pizzas, and gelato. Bruin Café has sandwiches, smootihes, and most importantly, coffee until 2am. Friends who visit from other campuses have expressed jealousy at how spoiled us Bruins are, for having so many things available when we want it, and sustenance offered at such late hours. Within the school, you can join a frat or sorority, or just go to the parties for the experience. I emphasize extracurricular activities because there are so many and they are such a great experience. There’s a niche for everybody, and most people get really involved in at least one org. You can perform onstage in culture nights, play club soccer, sing in a choir group, build houses in Nicaragua, etc. The possibilities are endless. There’s Westwood within walking distance. It has many food places as well, and some people make it a point to try everything at least once. Diddy Riese, the ice cream & cookie sandwich dessert store, is pretty popular. There are also cheap shoe stores, book stores, and movie theaters. The LACMA and Getty Museums are close by, as well as the David Geffen Theater, and even on campus, there are always performances in Royce Hall. Hollywood is a short ride away, and of course, this means a lot of celebrity run-ins, and clubbing events.

Am learning a lot

In terms of academics, it’s definitely important to come into UCLA with a good attitude about your abilities because although it is entirely possible to do well, it can be very discouraging when at first you try and don't do well. The worst part is that there are so many students, especially in the lower division classes, that you will never get any individual attention in lecture, and it might be hard to keep up with classes if you’re not putting in the work yourself. That being said, resources are definitely available- professor and TA office hours, tutoring programs, etc. If you put in the time and effort, you can learn 10x + the amount of information you ever had your K-12 education. There are a wide variety of classes offered and the professors are some of the most renowned in their field, so general education courses are a good chance to explore interests. You will also have the opportunity to gain a very deep understanding of your major. Since UCLA is a very research-oriented university, you’ll be learning many things as they are updated, and in many cases you’ll learn of technology that hasn’t become mainstream knowledge yet, especially in the sciences. By the time you get out, you can be sure that you have at least the same basic set of knowledge that all the greatest scholars in the field have. Nothing can prepare you for life as well as experience, however, and there are opportunities for that too. Extracurricular activities offer hands-on experience and networking opportunities in whatever you want- medical clinical experience, research labs, internships, etc. The students are also pretty politically active and you can become knowledgeable about worldwide issues as well. Overall, a great place to learn- both inside and outside of the classroom.

Uchenna from San Bernardino, CA

Independent, creative, outgoing, optimistic, outside-of-the-box, and inspired students who strive to be the talk of the town in any available major/occupation they hope to go into

Tips for prospective students

One major tip that my parents gave me that I wish to give to all of those hoping to attend a prestigious university of this nature would be this: If you make time for all the important things, you'll have time for everything!

Bang for the buck

With everything that UCLA has to offer, it is fair to assume that it would cost some good money for tuition and on-campus housing. Apartments could be easier depending on location, utilities, and other crucial matters of the like, but of course, they do go rather quickly.

Am enjoying being here

I'm currently in my second year here. I was formerly a student-athlete on the football team, but now I'm a regular student. Either way, I have enjoyed every moment of my experience here on-campus, from the dining halls and restaurants, to the dorms and apartments off-campus, to the many events that take place on-campus, there are many things that make UCLA stand out on its own quite well.

Am learning a lot

My courses have all been very enlightening and cool for me. Although there are some courses that are difficult than some others, they are all good challenges to take on, and quite possibly, could affect your life in very positive lights.

Stephanie

01/10/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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What to do for fun

Most people don't have cars on campus, due to the hassle of getting a parking spot, so fun things tend to be limited to walking distance. Fortunately, Westwood hosts a variety of eateries, hookah bars, movie theaters, and Diddy Riese. In addition, there are usually some UCLA sponsored activities on campus. And finally, frats and apartments are always an option.

Food and Dining

My tour guide told me that the food here is only second to Cornell, and Cornell has a culinary school. You'll quickly learn that De Neve is the best dining hall, but it's often crowded. Covell is decent, and nobody really seems to be a fan of Hedrick. Feast just opened up this year and features an full Asian menu, and most of the time it's amazing.

Dorm Life

I live in Rieber Hall, and the dorm is awesome. Some might balk at the tiny space in a triple, but it's really not that bad. There are about 90 people on my floor, and we share two communal bathroom (one for girls and one for guys). And it tends to work out!

Academic Rigor

So far the classes here have been a bit difficult, but manageable. The most common complaint seems to be that some professors aren't very good teachers, because their main focus is their research. However, use Bruinwalk and you should be fine.

Tips for prospective students

Because UCLA gets so many application, many people will have similar grades and SAT scores as you. This means that it will come down to your essay--make sure the admissions people know who you are.

In three sentences

UCLA is awesome-a decent location, beautiful campus, awesome food. In addition to the amenities, the collective intelligence of the campus is mind blowing. Take advantage of the clubs and activities here, because you definitely want to get involved.

the midnight yell and undie run during finals. students release their frustration by yelling at the top of their lungs once they are done with finals, and run around campus in their undies!

What to do for fun

there are too many clubs and activities to count. there seems to be one for every interest. apart from this, there is a good party scene around campus and the nearby l.a. area. being in l.a. there are so many theaters and museums nearby, including the getty which is very close. any weekend you could go sightseeing around l.a.

Food and Dining

the food in the dining halls is excellent. despite this, dorm food can get a bit boring and because of this there are an array of inexpensive food places around campus in westwood. i hardly ever go since the dining hall food is great and it is included in my meal plan!

Dorm Life

dorm life is really what you make of it. during the weekends it does get a bit rowdy as can be expected from all the frat party goers, but during finals and midterms noise levels reduce drastically and it is much easier to study. every floor has a study lounge and campus has a lot of libraries and study rooms available if it does get too noisy in the dorms. dorm rooms have a good amount of storage, but are quite small. especially the triples.

Academic Rigor

academic rigor really depends on the course you are taking and the professor teaching it. g.e.'s are typically straightforward and simple, while upper level courses can be very stressful. either way, they are more demanding in terms of grading of tests and papers than high school ever was. you must remember it is college and your grade really reflects the effort you put in to the class as well as your willingness to get to know your professor and t.a.'s.

Tips for prospective students

be prepared for the enormity of the student body. being from a small town, it was a huge adjustment to make. however once you adapt to the campus size and make new friends it is all worth it.

In three sentences

absolutely wonderful experience. great atmosphere and full of amazing opportunities if you are willing to take them. it is great for everyone!

Joe from Torrance, CA

Students who could understand the course materials without spending much time.

Tips for prospective students

Study first, then take a break.

Bang for the buck

Expensive but it is worth spending.

Am enjoying being here

There are many kind of people in this school and there are few hundred clubs so there are many places to meet new people.

Am learning a lot

Most of the classes are intense, but they are not extremely difficult. If you know what you are studying and dedicate enough time to deepen your understanding to the materials, you could at least earn a B. This is because most of the course curve the exams so even if you get 70% correct on the test, if you are the highest scorer, you will earn A for sure. Apparently instructors have to give 30% of the students A, 30% of the students B, and rest of students C or below. So important things to know is that key to success in this school is to do relatively better than other students. Therefore, spending more time in studying than other students would almost always lead students to academic success even if you could not ace the exam.

Joshua from Corona, CA

Great for competitors who do not want to spend the money to go to a private university. In the sciences, it's all about beating out the rest of the class.

Tips for prospective students

It's a great campus, but lacking in academic quality. I believe the university rankings is inflated because of the research that UCLA does.

Bang for the buck

Once again, the quality of teaching at least in the sciences is very poor. The only reason it can be difficult is the type of competition around you.

Am enjoying being here

There are many activities at UCLA, be it sporting events, movie premieres, Santa Monica, or the number of museums near campus.

Am learning a lot

I am learning a lot at this university, but strongly on my own accord. There are very few great science professors. I have learned from at most 3 great professors out of 13 science professors. I am very disappointed in the academic quality at UCLA.

Jenny from Los Angeles, CA

08/28/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

It is generally safe around the campus. But in the recent years, there's been a bunch of robberies on and off campus. Avoid walking back alone at night if you have to and be extremely aware of surroundings because a handful of students have been robbed of their cellphones and possessions on the way home.

Greek Life

Greek Life here is pretty dominant here. We have a sorority and a frat row here. Every Thursdays, there will always be parties hosted by the frats out on frat row. Girls get in for free but guys have to be placed on the guest list.

Clubs and Activities

UCLA has around 700 student organizations here for all of your interests,

What to do for fun

Go out and explore all of the eateries in Westwood Village, hang out at the newly built City Target, visit the Getty Center, shop at Westside Pavilion or Third Street Promenade, or head out to the Santa Monica Beach.

Food and Dining

UCLA is known to be one of the campuses with the best dining options. We have different foods from all over the world and the best chefs. Whether you're craving for something Asian, Mexican, or Middle Eastern- UCLA dining has it all. So, Freshman 15 is a definite high possibility here!

Dorm Life

Dorm life is excellent. I lived in the dorms for three years before moving out to the apartments. The dorms here are safe, clean, and new.

Academic Rigor

Academics at UCLA is pretty intense... There are more research-based classes than hands-on classes. Most of the professors seem to be more engrossed in their research than they are with teaching. So, most students have to self-teach or find study groups.

Tips for prospective students

Take easy, GE classes during your first quarter! Don't jump straight into your core pre-major classes. You can take one of them, but don't sign yourself up for more than two. Explore your options! And you want to start off with a strong foundation from the As you earned in those easy classes.

In three sentences

We have beautiful, calm weather here. It's usually sunny hereso it's perfect for the guys and gals enjoy wearing shorts and tees. We also have Westwood Village with a lot of great places you and your friends can eat at.

Catherine from Los Angeles, CA

09/28/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The entire campus is lit up, there's a van service that will drive you around at night, a community service officer will walk you anywhere if needed and there are emergency phones all over campus. Also, UCLA has its own police station -- you never feel unsafe here!

Greek Life

An intergral part of UCLA but not overpowering. The sororities are beautiful and the fraternities hold all the parties.

Clubs and Activities

Clubs range from the grilled cheese club to UCLA radio. There is so much and MORE than anyone could even imagine or ask for. UCLA has the best clubs and activites.

Great for these types of students

Athletic, smart, social, active, motivated and outgoing types. Everyone can fit in, but these people will be able to make the most of it!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The undie run is during finals week when everyone runs through the streets in their underwear to relieve stress. Also the midnight yell is fun, which happens also during finals week. Everyone yells out their windows at 12am to get out their studying frustrations.

Bang for the buck

Everything is a rip off, they're always trying to make more money. However, the education is the furthest thing from a rip off.

What to do for fun

Westwood, our college town is sweet. Movie premieres, shops, cafes and more are all at our fingertips. Parties are fun, but not hugely prominent. Sports are huge and theres always activities going on. UCLA=FUN.

Food and Dining

Food is amazing at UCLA. So many options. But it gets tiring after awhile. DIning halls are far from campus so lunch is hard to get on your meal plan, which is a bummer.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is awesome. So much independence. However, the dorms are so far away from campus and if you don't get the right dorm, you're social life can suffer since some of them are pretty much anti-social. Also, rooms are small in some buildings and lots of built up triples.

Academic Rigor

UCLA can be extremely difficult, especially with the quarter system. However, there are times when it is easier than high school and feels like a breeze. Depending on the classes, its either a hit or miss for difficulty, but always be prepared to work.

Tips for prospective students

Stay overnight to get a real feel for the school. Tours can be deceiving since they always show you the best of everything. Also, be prepared to stay on campus if you do not have a car. Think about transportation options and preferences before you decide on UCLA.

In three sentences

UCLA offers more opportunities than any other school in the entire world. With world class professors, classes, athletics and fun, you can't go wrong. However, get ready to get lost in the crowd unless you know how to outshine thousands of people.

Eleanor from Lakewood, CA

09/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

UCLA provides many options in order to create the most safe environment for students. Safety is taken very seriously here at UCLA. We have campus escorts who can accompany you to wherever you need to go on campus or even to your dorms if you are traveling late at night after studying in the library or coming from a club meeting. All you have to do is call their number and an escort will come to where you are and walk with you to your destination. We also have vanpool services for students who may need to walk far to their destination and also for students who do not want to walk alone at night. The vanâ??s services run at night and are a great safety feature for students who may have had worries about having to attend night classes or late night club meetings. We also have the Bruin Alert system which is a text messaging service that sends texts to students if there is an emergency or danger on campus that students need to know about. As a freshman living in the dorms, you will be very safe because only students with Bruincards can enter the buildings and the dorms are so close to campus. So you can tell your parents not to worry and that you will be safe here at UCLA.

Greek Life

Greek life is a big part of UCLAâ??s social atmosphere. We have so many different fraternities and sororities that you are bound to find one that fits your personality and interests. We even have specifically tailored fraternities that focus on a specific issue or theme like pre-med fraternities, which are popular amongst our health and pre-med majors. Besides being a great way to meet new friends and to have fun, being apart of a frat or a sorority is also a great way to network and also give back to the community for many fraternities and sororities value community service and volunteering. So for you social butterflies, I highly recommend you to take interest in our greek life. It will be a great way for you to adjust to UCLA and the dynamic college life.

Clubs and Activities

Here at UCLA, we have so many clubs that it would be impossible for you to not find one based on your interests. We have clubs for people interested in music, volunteering, art, politics, the environment, animals, and so much more. I even heard that their is a Shorts Club where they where shorts 365 days of the year. If we have that then I am sure you will find a club that you will like. Being involved in a club here at UCLA is a great way to get involved and also to help build your resume! Clubs are also the best way to meet new friends because you will automatically have something in common with them! You can also get involved in other on campus activities like being a part of our student government. We have so many opportunities for students to get involved here on campus, all you do you have to do is find one thats right for you. Keep in mind that activities like clubs are the best way to occupy your time and help make your transition to UCLA easier and funner. We also have so many sports teams here for you athletic people including football, baseball, gymnastics, and so much more. Here at UCLA, we hold many championships from our many years of dominance in several different sports. For those who may want to be in a sport, but not competitively or seriously, we have club sports which are more for fun. I recommend that to you freshman who are looking for a great way to stay fit but without having to make a major time commitment to practices and games.

Great for these types of students

UCLA is home to so many diverse Bruins from all over the world. Our students are outgoing, active, and so many of us get involved in on campus clubs and activities. Thus, UCLA is great for students who are outgoing and love to put themselves out there and support their school. If you are not really a social butterfly, rather a shy caterpillar, UCLA is great for you too! UCLA supports all kinds of students from all sorts of backgrounds. Even if you are not out there and are super confident, UCLA would be great for you because every student is important to us and every student adds to UCLA's character in his or her own way.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

One thing that I love about UCLA is that we have so many traditions. One fun tradition is actually called the Undie Run, which is when students run down a specific route on campus in, well you can guess what you wear. This happens once a quarter and any student who wants to participate can! Not only is this a popular event, it draw out many spectators every quarter, as you can only imagine. Another huge tradition is our big USC rivalry. We are big rivals of USC and every year during the UCLA vs USC football game, the event draws in so many students and spectators. During the week before the big game, students often camp out in front of our famous Bruin Bear and protect it against any Trojans that may come to deface our precious statue. Another huge tradition here at UCLA involves the Inverted Fountain. This represents basically the beginning and end, well not really because once a Bruin always a Bruin, for our students. Freshman, during their orientation are brought here and are given the opportunity to dip their hands inside the fountain. During my orientation, I actually went inside the inverted fountain, which is totally allowed, so donâ??t be afraid to try! After all, how many times in your life will you be able to go inside a fountain and be encouraged to do so! After doing that, you make a pledge involving your initiation to the Bruin family and promise to never, and I mean NEVER, touch the fountain ever again until after you graduate. That is the myth here at UCLA, once you touch the water, you canâ??t touch it again until after you graduate, or else bad luck is headed your way. This tradition and initiation as a Bruin is one of the most valuable memories you will make here at UCLA because it marks the beginning of your journey here as a Bruin and the long, wonderful road to come.

Bang for the buck

As I mentioned before, UCLA offers many FREE activities, yes I said free, for students. The most popular ones are sneak peaks for movies and free movie screenings. We also have so many shops and stores around UCLA whether it be for food or for clothes, you will almost always find a great deal on an item on your shopping list in Westwood. The people who own the shops in Westwood know that college students love deals and that they are, not to mention, their most popular customers, so they always have great discounts and sales for college students. We also have a great transportation system here at UCLA, like the Big Blue Bus and the metro which can take you to places around Westwood and LA for cheap! So transportation will be the least of your troubles at UCLA!

What to do for fun

Besides studying hard, the next things UCLA students know to do best is to party and to have fun. Here at UCLA, we are very lucky to be located right in the heart of Westwood. Students often walk to Westwood to eat at one of our many delicious restaurants, shop at our small unique boutiques, or simply to walk around and take in the sights. Diddy Riese is actually one of the more popular destinations in Westwood and you are not truly a Bruin until you have tried one of their famous ice cream sandwiches. Students often take the bus to Santa Monica on the weekends as well for it is not far and it is a great relaxing destination after midterms and finals. This is a cheap and easy way to have some fun at the beach, get a little shopping done, and indulge in some delicious treats away from the dorms. Also popular are our sports games, especially football. They are a great way to show your school spirit and an excuse to wear blue face paint, come on donâ??t tell me you never wanted to try! A great thing about UCLA is that we offer a lot of fun, free events to students such as movie screenings and sneak peaks. Last year, the movie 50/50 was shown for free and Joseph Gordon Levitt even showed up! It doesnâ??t get any better than that! This year, UCLA gave free movie screenings for the Avengers, Looper, and the Perks of Being A Wallflower!! These events are usually on campus as well so in addition to being within walking distance, it is also safe for students. If you're more of a stay in your dorm kind of person, there are always events that your RA's put on that you can attend without even leaving the building! I promise that you will never run out of fun stuff to do here at UCLA.

Food and Dining

UCLA is known for having one of the best dining halls among the UC's. Here, at our diverse collection of dining halls, the UCLA cooks make food that will satisfy the mouths of every student. Whether you love comfort food, are a junk food addict, or love healthy salads, we have that all here for you at UCLA. Knowing that we have a unique array of students here at UCLA from all around the world, we have special on campus dining locations to cater to specific tastes. For example, we have Feast which offers only Asian food and features food from two cultures each day. Thursday is usually Korean food and Thai food, my favorite. For those who love quick Chinese take-out or Mexican food, Rendezvous would be perfect for you. For panini, pizza, and hearty salad lovers, Cafe 1919 is your ideal selection. Finally, for the late night food munchies, Bruin Cafe is the most popular spot to get something to eat, especially at night. It stays open to about 1 or 2 in the morning so students can always get something warm to eat when they are hungry at night. We also have our main dining halls which serve food buffet style. You can pick whatever you want to eat with no restrictions on how many times you want to eat. These dining halls always have a great sense of community, so combined with great food, the dining halls will be your third home (behind the dorms). I can guarantee that you will not be disappointed by all of the delicious food options we have for you at UCLA and that you will probably gain more than the infamous Freshman 15.

Dorm Life

Besides the library, for some of us, your dorm will basically be your home away from home for the next 9 months so it is important that you be comfortable in it. Here at UCLA, we are lucky to have dorms that are convenient for students in terms of location and safety. The most common dorms for freshman students are called halls. These are basically dorms, which you share with one or two other people, that have community style bathrooms and laundry rooms. Thus, all the girls on your side of the floor share a bathroom with several showers and toilets, and the same for guys. The great thing about halls is that it is almost impossible to not make friends, whether it is with your own roommates or with your neighbors. Students are always in the hallways and it is so convenient to just go across the hallway to ask a friend about homework or to just talk and hang out. It is basically the ideal place for those of you who love social interaction, donâ??t mind sharing your space, and being surrounded by people. There is a great sense of community in halls and often, the floors have game nights, movie nights, and the latest favorite, a game called assassin (look it up). For those of you who like a little more privacy and quiet, we have the plazas. These are dorms that have their own private bath for each dorm room. I personally had a plaza room and it was very convenient not having to go outside and walk all the way down a hall to use the bathroom at 2 in the morning like for the hall people. Having some extra privacy even though it may just be the bathroom helps a lot in terms of being able to just relax more and study more conveniently. The floors have less people but still have the same kind of fun and bonding like halls do. So donâ??t think that being in a plaza is a complete social dead zone because it isnâ??t. Apartments on the other hand are more for juniors and seniors and are tougher for freshman to get, but if you like the idea of complete independence, then go for it! Overall, the dorm life here at UCLA is a lot of fun and will most likely be your favorite experience in college. Also, it is safe for students and they are located on campus so walking to class will only take about 10 to 15 minutes.

Academic Rigor

I am guessing that you have probably heard the rumors that UCLA is a shark pool full of competitive students willing to do whatever it takes to get the A. However, do not be scared by those rumors and most of all, do not let the rumors dissuade you from applying to UCLA. Yes, I will admit that it is true that students here do possess some form of competitiveness, some more than others, but it is those students that makes UCLA have the great reputation that it holds. Classes go by quickly here at UCLA, since we are on the quarter system, so students are under pressure to learn the material from their classes quickly and to study hard. Before you know it, midterms are already around the corner and eventually, finals. Because of the quarter system, it only makes sense for students to have to be on their toes 24/7 and for them to be on top of their studies so they do not fall behind, which can occur very easily. Thus, it is not true that students here will purposely try to make other students do bad on tests or that they are cutthroat and aggressive. It is merely that the standards here at UCLA are higher because of our quarter system and it requires students to have to always be prepared and organized with their classes. UCLA offers many majors, and I personally as a science major can tell you that it is pretty tough to get spectacular grades here at UCLA, but it is not impossible. Because there are so many students here, it is important that you as a prospective UCLA student know that those good grades come only from studying hard, attending lectures, and making an effort to want to learn the material that the professors and TAâ??s are teaching. To say that UCLA is an easy school and that you will be under little academic stress would be a severe understatement, but UCLA is not known to be one of the best public universities in the nation for no reason. We attract so many students because we have some of the best professors here and we know that you will get so much out of your classes. So yes, classes are hard and students are very smart, but it is all worth it because UCLA will prepare you very well for your future and will provide a great foundation for your academic studies.

Tips for prospective students

Here at UCLA, we pride ourselves on the fact that our students are well rounded. Sure, we have the kids who are book smart and practically live in the library, but we have so many outgoing students who excel in so many different areas. Thus, a tip for helping yourself prepare for applying to this great school is to know that grades do not define the applicant. Sure, it looks great if you pushed yourself in high school and took many AP classes, but it looks even better that you did well in the classes you took so do not get caught up in filling every class in your schedule with an AP class. So study hard and strive for those good grades, and do not be worried if you do not have straight Aâ??s. Many students at UCLA get into this school because all together, they have the entire package, not simply because they had excellent grades. Of course grades are a critical part of the application process, they are not the only thing admissions counselors look at. Another major part of your application are your extracurricular activities and clubs. Now this can range from so many things to being the president of your CSF club to being in Boy Scouts for 10 years. Whatever your hobby is, be proud of it and record it. Put down all the extra things you have done, like being a volunteer at a homeless shelter, being on varsity tennis, or being a member of a school club. Tip to remember: it also looks great to show that you have shown leadership, like being the president or treasurer of a club. So do not be afraid to apply for a board member position because it teaches you a lot about leadership, responsibility, and maturity. Finally, your personal statement is like the icing on the cake you have baked for the admissions people. It shows your true colors and gives you a chance to say whatever you think needs to said about you and your accomplishments. Here at UCLA, youâ??ll enter a new chapter of your life, one where youâ??ll make long lasting friendships, try things you never thought youâ??d do, join clubs you never thought youâ??d join, and most of all, youâ??ll find a new sense of responsibility and freedom. So be excited to apply to UCLA, and make that excitement and hard work show in your application.

In three sentences

No matter how far away from home you are, I guarantee that you will fit in with your new Bruin family here at UCLA. UCLA is well respected university and is home to so many diverse and outgoing Bruins. UCLA has so much to offer to students such as outstanding sports teams, hundreds of clubs, great food, comfortable dorms, and of course, a great foundation for your education and future.

Jr year

Depends how late your are walking around. There is a safety escort service where someone will walk you to your dorm, car etc.if you don't feel safe.

Bang for the buck

Tuition fees are rising, so they can rebuild buildings and not your education. Departments pressure professors to use the worst textbooks in their fields because they get kickback for selling them to students.

Francesca from FONTANA, CA

01/04/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

There are emergency call boxes everywhere and there are free van and escort services to take us to our destination all the time. It's super safe. Basically, it's so safe that my own mother thinks it's TOO safe. Hahaha.

Greek Life

My roommate is in a top house and she loves it. It's very difficult to get into some, but it's worth it. However it's very expensive.

Clubs and Activities

Rage is a gay club at West Hollywood that people go to a lot. It's a friendly fun environment. There are many other clubs nearby, of course.

Great for these types of students

Social students! It's LA.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There are so many. One popular one is the Undie Run. Dress in only your underwear during finals week and run! It's super fun. And there's midnight yell during finals week where people just scream at the top of their lungs.

Bang for the buck

I would not want to go to any other school but UCLA. It's literally the best school ever.

What to do for fun

One of the greatest things about going to UCLA says it all in the name: LA. Los Angeles is a number one tourist attraction! We're just a little ways away from Hollywood, West Hollywood, Beverley Hills, Santa Monica. It's great. You can just hop on a bus for 50 cents [UCLA students only] and go to the 3rd Street Promenade for some shopping. Also, we live in Westwood, a city of fancy dining, boutiques, Target, Whole Foods, and everything and anything else you need.

Food and Dining

I mentioned this already under dorm life, but again, I will say it is amazing. The great thing about our school is there are places on campus that you can get take-out. Most colleges only offer dining hall options, but our school has great dining halls AND great take-out places. It's really good. My favorite is Cafe 1919, they serve Italian food, but I just love the Florentine and the Bolognese! Yuuuummmy!

Dorm Life

It's the best. Wherever you live, you will meet amazing people. The dorm life is so great because you discover more and more about your school and the resources around you. Also, the food at UCLA is rated one of the top ones in CA. Believe me, it's great food. One of the dining halls serves only gourmet, top-chef styled food. It's insanely good. I've brought family and friends over to check it out and they love it as well.

Academic Rigor

Honestly, some of the professors aren't the best at teaching. They are amazing at their subject, but don't know how to communicated with students. And TA's are worse sometimes. A TA, teacher's assistants, can make it or break it for you. And teachers don't care like they did in high school. Your grade is not based on participation anymore, it's based on a midterm and a final and that's basically it.

Tips for prospective students

Live on campus the first year!! It is important to meet people and build friendships in college, especially if you'll be missing your family. Study hard, this is not an understatement. It isn't high school anymore, the competition here is insane.

In three sentences

It is one of the best colleges in California. From academics to the social aspects, it's definitely top-notch. I am a proud UCLA Bruin and am so grateful for the opportunity to attend an amazing school.

Amanda from Covina, CA

It feels fairly safe but I am still wary walking around alone at night, that just seems common sense.

Greek Life

Seems good, but I'm not too involved.

Clubs and Activities

There are a ton of clubs! There is more clubs than you will have time to participate in so choose wisely. They're a lot of fun so I recommend finding one that you are really passionate about.

Great for these types of students

Its great for both academic and social people, UCLA is an excellent balance of both aspects of people's personalities.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Go tunneling, it's a UCLA tradition and a lot of fun to do with friends.

Bang for the buck

Great price for the level of academic opportunities.

What to do for fun

There's plenty of places to eat and hang out in westwood. If you're looking to go to the beach or go shopping, its a quick bus ride to the Santa Monica promenade which can be lots of fun. Or if you're more into going out LA has tons of clubs in the nearby region and the frats are always raging.

Food and Dining

UCLA food is delicious and theres a ton of options. Just make sure you know who's serving what food and when so you can catch all your favorites. They make it easy, all you have to do is look it up online. Also brunch will always be crowded as will all peak dining hours so at times tables are hard to find.

Dorm Life

If you're living on a hall dorm life can be a lot of fun. The more social dormotories provide a lot of chances for fun activities and great friends. A lot of the time the friends you make on your dorm floor will be your best friends throughout your college years.

Academic Rigor

I am an engineering major so perhaps I'm a little biased, but UCLA is difficult. The quarter system moves fast so do not be lazy in the beginning and think you can catch up, because it'll be midterms sooner than you expect. The curving system can be a saving grace, but study hard, you want to beat the curve.

Tips for prospective students

Try and get involved right away, whether it be with your floor, greek life, or one of the many campus clubs. It is a great way for you to make friends, looks good on your resume, and just really helps give you a sense of purpose while you're attending school.

In three sentences

This school has a lot of opportunities if you're willing to look for them. UCLA obviously has a lot of students, but they provide many opportunities for you to find your niche on campus and thus give the campus a smaller more homey feel in spite of it's size. The campus is beautiful and Los Angeles weather can't be beat, which definitely improves your experience walking to and from classes.

Anonymous

01/07/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

UCLA is pretty safe. They have UCPD dedicated to keeping it safe and Community Service Officers who patrol the dorms, walk people to their apartments, and provide an evening van service so students don't have to walk back alone.

Greek Life

I enjoy being part of greek life. I joined a sorority and have made amazing friends. There can be a misconception about sororities, so check it out, you have nothing to loose. They have parties, but also push academics, and creating well rounded people.

Clubs and Activities

UCLA has a club for everything, from community service to quidditch. If they don't you can create it. People are friendly, and you can meet so many interesting people through organizations.

Great for these types of students

This is a school for everyone. There are groups for out going people, and groups for the more studious homebody people. The only people who may not like UCLA are those who like small classes. They do exist, but are not that common in some majors.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Tunneling is pretty interesting. Undie run happens during finals week, where people run around campus in their undergarments, or shorts.

Bang for the buck

It is comparatively less expensive than a private university, but the cost of living is about the same as your tuition.

What to do for fun

Westwood has lots of restaurants to go to. There's a few bars, movie theaters, and shopping available. Not to mention as it is Los Angeles you can hop on a bus, or drive to downtown, the grove etc.

Food and Dining

While they have a variety of dining halls, the food gets tiring. You eat the same stuff quite often. The lines are long too.

Dorm Life

I lived in dorms for three years and I had a great time. Although, my roommates were insane people I still enjoyed it. I had lots of friends on all my floors who I still hangout with. They have different dorm types for the more sociable person, to the person who doesn't like to hangout with new people.

Academic Rigor

Classes can be tough. South campus which contains the sciences are difficult. So you will need to study. Being on a quarter system means you have to keep up. North camp, which is the Humanities and social sciences has a lot of reading so try and do as much of it as possible. Don't be afraid to ask questions.

Tips for prospective students

This is a big University, so find your niche as soon as possible. Whatever you are interested in, check it out for yourself, don't always listen to what people say about certain organizations. Make friends in your major, you may be in need in notes one day, or a study buddy. Get involved, UCLA has so much to offer outside as well as inside the classroom. Go to office hours if you need help, it may be intimidating at first, but you can do it.

In three sentences

Classes can be way too crowded sometimes, that is including upper division courses. School spirit/pride is big, once a bruin always a bruin (mainly applicable during football season). UCLA is a place where people are friendly, yet competitive in the classroom.

Harsh

(see 'what to do for fun') There's north of 800 clubs, so there's no lack of choice - and if a club representing your interest isn't there, go ahead and petition to start one!

Great for these types of students

Nearly everyone.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Undie Run - people run in their undies/boxers to bust stress in finals week. Sliding down hills on blocks of ice. The Mysterious Underground Tunnels - oooohhh Generally being drowned in excitement during the UCLA-USC game - even if we know we're going to trash USC. Trying to dodge fliers on Bruinwalk (nah I'm just being mean) Oh, and occasionally you can find Platform 9 3/4 or DIAGON ALLEY written on walls on campus.

Bang for the buck

Totally. And this is coming from an international student.

What to do for fun

There are a LOT of recreational on-campus clubs, and others devoted to certain subjects. There's not only a lot of socializing you could do, but also a lot of doing what you find fun. For example, there's a Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Gaming club, an astronomy club, a film and even an origami society, and loads of other clubs and societies where you find people who share your hobby.There's even organizations that bring together people of the same major or the same field, like the Math or the Stats associations. Ooh, and there's these two lovely gaming places - Ackerman Game-On (where you can choose from a wide variety of games to play on PC stations, XBox 360 or PlayStation consoles), and an arcade room which will give you a good hour of pure fun and a rush of nostalgia. There's even various events/celebrity talks/film sneak peeks (no kidding, they're shown at UCLA about two-three weeks before release) organized by the Campus Events Commission. Watch out, film trivia buffs - they give out free movie posters for answering questions! For those who like comic books and graphic novels, there's an entire section of those in the Powell Library, and a large number of them even at the YRL. For people who like to party a lot - well, you're at UCLA. Knock yourself out.

There's three types of dorm rooms: residence (res) hall rooms, plazas and suites. (in decreasing order of liveliness, and increasing order of size and cost) I'm currently in a deluxe residential hall, which means there's a bit more space, even if the floors are just as lively. There's always new people you can meet at the study lounges and interesting building events that take place. It's much more exciting this year for me than it was last year - take the suites only if you prefer a lot more quiet.

Academic Rigor

UCLA's lower division classes are very highly competitive and the upper division classes to me are wonderfully interesting and yet challenging and rigorous, and the classes are taught by distinguished professors. 'Course one can always organize a study session, or even schedule office hours with the TAs or the professors, who are quite accessible and friendly in general.

Tips for prospective students

Your academics matter a lot, but UCLA's a place where you could do anything marvelous and exciting - start a club, or even something more! Stay focused on your academics, but remember that you're in a place that's so lively and energetic, that there's always more to do. Stuff you might find annoying: Parking Stuff you won't find annoying: The weather. Not in a hundred years.

In three sentences

I'm so glad to have chosen UCLA. The college is both very prestigious and lively - loads of fun events and parties to go with learning and researching under top notch professors and fantastic resources.

Lauren

07/21/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Even at 3 am, I felt safe walking around campus alone. There are little podiums you can go to if you don't feel safe and someone will come assist you, and there is an escort service that will pick you up / walk with you to your destination. UCLA is such a safe campus and rarely do you hear of anything going wrong on the campus itself. The surrounding apartment areas are a bit less secure but I have never encountered any problems walking from the apartments back to the dorms late at night.

Clubs and Activities

Like I've said many times, UCLA has something for everyone. Swim club, League of Legends club, quidditch club... you name it. And if it's not a thing yet, it's super easy to start your own club.

Great for these types of students

UCLA is great for students who are looking for a challenge, but are willing to be humbled. You may have been the smartest kid in your graduating class but I can almost guarantee there will be someone who is 100x smarter than you without even trying. It sucks but it really helps you grow as a student. To be successful at UCLA you have to be disciplined. Going to class is so SO important, no matter if lecture notes are online or if the teacher podcasts the class. Students who are willing to put in the hard work will do very well.

Bang for the buck

Let's be real - UCLA is not cheap. There are a lot of seemingly pointless fees. While graduating with a degree from UCLA is advantageous in today's job market, it doesn't always guarantee success. How much bang you get for your buck really rests on if you choose to take advantage of all the free perks you get by being a student (gym access, pool access, rec center access, etc).

What to do for fun

Besides having a club to appeal to literally everyone, Westwood and the surrounding areas are all great places to go and hang out. Santa Monica is super close and only costs $1 for a bus there and back; tons of buses go to downtown from nearby as well. Greek life is pretty big on campus so there is always a party on Thursday or Friday to go hang out at. Most dorm buildings have a game room on the bottom floor you can use, and the IM field is almost always open to go and mess around on. Sunset Rec is another great place to go; there are pools, volleyball courts and large fields to hang out on.

Food and Dining

UCLA restaurants are incredible. Hands down. Tons of variety between the dining halls and the quick serve places; Italian, Mexican, Asian, and American food. The hours for some of the restaurants make it hard to coordinate classes and grabbing lunch at your favorite place (unless your favorite place is BCaf) but there is always somewhere open to go eat. Meal plans are pretty pricey but if you can, get either 14P or 19P. Don't settle for regular.

Dorm Life

The experience you have in the dorms will really vary depending on where you end up. If you choose to live in a themed community, make sure it is something you really care about, otherwise you will end up with a group of people who are all passionate about something and you may feel left out. UCLA has a lot of amazing people, but there is always potential to be stuck on a floor with a bunch of boring people. If you can, try to room with someone you know because it will make the transition so much smoother. Getting stuck with crappy roommates really puts a damper on freshman year.

Academic Rigor

Both North Campus and South Campus classes are hard for different reasons. North Campus classes involve a lot of reading and writing but the material is usually pretty straight-forward and just requires memorization. South Campus classes generally require little homework but involve a LOT of studying to be able to get the material down because of how complex it can get. Classes at UCLA are hard but are definitely manageable on the quarter system.

Tips for prospective students

Focus on building up extracurriculars and volunteer hours. Grades do matter but they're not everything; UCLA looks for very well-rounded students. Dedicate a lot of time to writing and rewriting your essay to make it as good as possible; this is your one shot to communicate your personality to admissions when, otherwise, all they have to go off of is numbers.

In three sentences

UCLA is an amazing school if you love being around people and testing your academic (and social!) limits. There are so many clubs and teams and there is literally something for everyone. While attending UCLA is a challenge, the people you meet, the experiences you have, and the things you learn make it so worth it.

Tara

01/04/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

UCLA is great for those people that like cities or just want something different. If the size of the school is a concern for you, then you should know that by getting involved you will be able to develop a circle of friends and a smaller atmosphere. Remember, you can always make a big school smaller, but can't make a small school bigger.

Tips for prospective students

College is not like high school! There is less homework, but more studying. Studying is not cramming; you must study throughout the quarter if you want to be successful.

Bang for the buck

I gave UCLA a four star, because I must agree that it is expensive. However, colleges are over the United States are also pricey. The opportunites that UCLA makes available for its students makes it worth it in my opinion.

Am enjoying being here

I absolutely LOOOOOVE UCLA. I could not even dream of going anywhere else. The culture here is so rich and diverse, and there is this family atmosphere that I had not seen at any other school. Alumni, students, and faculty are proud to saw that they are able to be a part of something that is bigger than just themselves. Once a Bruin, always a Bruin!

Am learning a lot

UCLA is a great school to build on what you have already learned in high school. There are many opportunities here which include tutoring programs, internships, networking, and clubs. These all allow you to branch out in your education and help in your pursuit of a job in the nearby future.

I had a wonderful experience at UCLA. There are a great variety of courses/classes and most of the professors are really passionate about what they teach, with their office doors open anytime for help.

Madison from Torrance, CA

12/31/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Safety is a huge issue on campus and people take it very seriously. You can call an escort anytime throughout the night that can walk with you to your destination. Also, they have a shuttle service at dark. Every Thursday night there is a christian club that offers rides to wherever you need to go!

Greek Life

Just new to greek life, and I can tell you it is not for everybody, but if you are a very social person, it is extremely for you. There are many events that you are required to go to, which makes it inevitable to meet people! The sororities have a strict no hazing policy, you can trust me on this! I have met so many fantastic people through this!

Clubs and Activities

There are more than 300 clubs and activities, it is bound that you will join a club or two.

Great for these types of students

If you are on outdoor type of person there are many hikes, and running paths, outdoor swimming pools and clubs that you can join that allow you to be active. If you are more of a video gamer there is an entire store inside the student center dedicated to video games, sometimes I hear they even have competitions.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Every Wednesday night of finals week at midnight students will run around campus in their underwear and sing the UCLA songs the entire time.

Bang for the buck

Things are expensive. It is okay if you can not afford to live on campus, because there are so many clubs that you can join that will help you meet friends.

What to do for fun

Every floor always does fun activities throughout the year, so i suggest to get to know your RA's and floor mates. Some other fun things include going out on Thursday nights, going to the bars in Westwood, taking a bus to Santa Monica 3rd Street Promenade, or the Santa Monica Pier, or Venice. There are many sushi places in Westwood that are fun to try. Also sometimes there are premieres in Westwood and it is very possible for UCLA students to get into the movie.

Food and Dining

Food is absolutely fantastic! Much better than your mother's cooking! There are four dining halls and three fast food places that are all allowed on your meal plan. The dining halls offer a variety of food, and always include cultural foods, comfort foods, and desserts. One of the dining halls is brand new and offers organic food that you can only find at foo-foo restaurants. The quick food services include Mexican, Asian, Italian, or plain old deli style. Unlimited options!

Dorm Life

I absolutely love dorm life. I live in a classic hall. I have two roommates and many floor mates. I also have a communal bathrooms. But there are many other options if this life is not for you. If you want something more quiet you can have a bigger room with only one other roommate and a bathroom and shower in your room. They have many types of options. The best part about dorm life is that all of the dorms are dedicated onto one part of campus, the hill. That way if you want to go visit a friend in another dorm, it is only about a six minute walk.

Academic Rigor

Most of the general science classes are rigorous! Extremely hard, but there is always a curve. Some smaller classes are not as challenging because you get more attention from your professor. Some classes are just fun, but there is no class that is easy, and no work.

Tips for prospective students

Most of the students that I have met were involved in many extracurricular activities. UCLA values education as much as outside school learning. I also talked about leadership and experience in my essays, which I felt was a big part onto how I got into the school. UCLA students have a very wide background and are very studious students who truly value learning.

In three sentences

UCLA offers many opportunities including research, volunteering, internships, and friendships. UCLA is right in the heart of Los Angeles and offers many fun activities for students, including a walk down Westwood Blvd, or a bus ride to Santa Monica Blvd. The academics are rigorous, but not to worry, it is guaranteed that you will meet students taking the same class as you and you can always make a study group together.

Anonymous

The list of fun activities is inexhaustible. Quite literally, any interest that you may have is sure to have a club or organization associated with it at UCLA.

Food and Dining

One of the best college dining facilities in the United States. Every meal you have at any of the dining halls or restaurants around campus is sure to be a fulfilling one. Outstanding variety and top notch quality on everything that emerges from those kitchens.

Dorm Life

The quality of dorm life at UCLA is unparalleled. Most of the dorms are very social. The rooms are well designed to meet your requirements. If you are in a triple, it may get cramped at times but that's just a minor problem. The restrooms are cleaned on a regular basis. Depending on whether you are in a hall or suite, you may get a common or a private restroom. There are study lounges on the floor if the room gets too boring for you. There are also residential assistants who are on hand to help you with whatever you need.

Academic Rigor

UCLA runs on the quarter system which is extremely fast paced. So, even if your coursework doesn't seem too hard, you might become hard-pressed for time. Time management is the key to success at UCLA.

Tips for prospective students

Some of the majors are quite hard to get into, so you may want to apply undecided and then on the strength of your grades within college, switch to the major of your choice. Make sure your application presents a comprehensive picture of who you are & what your achievements are. Even if some parts of your application aren't very strong, there may be other things you've accomplished that may swing the admission decision in your favor.

In three sentences

A beautiful campus with a very diverse group of students. There are so many different opportunities on campus, that every student can realize their true potential. Highly qualified teaching staff and excellent facilities & infrastructure.

Kyle from Valencia, CA

12/30/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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In three sentences

Attending UCLA will force you to become a better student and an independent thinker. The collection of braniacs here make life at UCLA an engaging academic experience that is combined with an exciting social life in a vibrant part of LA. UCLA offers an intense but amazing college experience that is unparalleled elsewhere (especially the school which shall not be named).

Tina from California City, CA

09/27/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

Students who are looking for a challenge, because you will be tested not only in class, but also by being a part of campus life. Those who wish to meet new students and are willing to learn about new cultures.

Tips for prospective students

Living on campus for one year is great, but worth the price. You will be more involved with the campus and events. Make sure to also keep up with your deadlines, assignments, and readings.

Bang for the buck

It is pricey; from tuition to your books and your dorms. You do get a lot of knowledge not just about your classes, but also the students that are around you.

Am enjoying being here

I have found a sense of community just by being here. This sense of community might sound strange, because UCLA is such a big school and you might not know everyone, but you will feel accepted for yourself. The campus is beautiful and it is definitely different from the other campuses that I have visited.

Am learning a lot

This is for sure, because as a student on campus, you are meeting professors and T.A.'s who are passionate about their subject areas. The lectures might be long and boring those not interested in the topic, but then you might find a T.A. who will change your mind about the course.

Lydia from Oceanside, CA

11/16/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Bang for the buck

UCLA is a really great place to live and go to school, but residential fees can be extremely expensive. At times it definitely feels like I am paying far too much for housing and dining than what I am getting. A smart idea would be to live off campus in an apartment and possibly safe hundreds of dollars.

Am enjoying being here

UCLA is a lot of fun and most people find that they fit in really well with the people around them. There is a perfect balance of social life and study life where there is little pressure coming from either side. There are aways activities around campus to take part in and meet new people. There is never a weekend when there isn't something going on to entertain you.

Am learning a lot

Even though I have only spent one quarter at UCLA so far, I have learned and experienced so much. Its not all just what you learn in lecture either; throughout the day you pick up on little bits of information and experiences from the people around you and you really start to experience what the real world is like. The professors are amazing and very inspiring as well. Advice: Join clubs! Talk to your professors! Listen to presentations happening all over campus!

Zonia from Pico Rivera, CA

12/13/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

UCLA is a great school for students who love to be around a lot of people, for students who know how to speak up and want to stand out! This university is full of challenges and difficult courses. So if you're ready for that challenge, then you're ready to be a Bruin!

Tips for prospective students

This may sound silly but be in shape! There is so much walking! When I barely arrived I was out of breath instantly! It was necessary for me to be in shape in order not to get to class panting everyday. Also introduce yourself to your professors the first day of class. There are so many students in each classroom that it is nice for the professor to know who you are. That may determine the B- from the A.

Bang for the buck

UCLA is very expensive but very worth it! I know living on campus is expensive but I would say go for it!

Am enjoying being here

I love being here! I was nervous to move out of my house especially since I was so attached to my family but dorming on campus has been the best choice of my life! I have made so many new friends and I have learned how to be a lot more independent. It doesn't take long to get used to it. I live in a plaza which means i share a bathroom with 5 other girls. It may seem like that would cause problems but it is perfect! We all have different showering schedules so our shower times never conflict. I have also become very close to the girls I live with! Not to mention the food on campus! It is delicious! I love eating at school! They recently opened a new dining hall which is very good!

Am learning a lot

College is most definitely not high school. It took me a while to realize that sadly, so don't make the same mistake I did. I never needed to study in high school and I thought that was going to work at UCLA and it did not! It is very necessary to study! Keep focus!

Lauren from Chicago, IL

12/19/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

Coming from Chicago to LA has definitely been quite a change. Ever since I was in 6th grade, I knew I wanted to get out of the midwest and dreamed of places like Berkeley and Harvard. I surprised myself 6 years later when I chose UCLA over Berkeley. I visited not expecting much, but within one short weekend, I realized that UCLA was the right place for me. The campus itself is large enough to make it seem safe and like its own town, but the city is not too far away in case you want to venture off. Santa Monica and other great shopping destinations are not too hard to access and are inexpensive to travel to ($1.00 roundtrip via the bus). During the week, you'll always see kids on campus and around the dorms hustling about, but during the weekends, a lot of people go home, so it's a little less crowded. UCLA also recently opened up a new Asian-cuisine dining hall, so now if you're in the mood for pretty much any cuisine, you're guaranteed that they'll have it. All of their food is delicious and we're pretty high-ranked in terms of college food. Since the campus is down the hill from the dorms, it's about a 15-20 minute walk to most classes from your dorm, but it helps keep off the freshman 15!

Bang for the buck

While UCLA is amazing, it does come with a hefty price, especially for those who are paying out-of-state tuition. While I got a good amount in grants and scholarship, I'm still paying a lot as well as taking out a good amount of loans. Tuition increases are pretty drastic, especially in such little periods of time. My room and board, at this rate, costs more than my tuition itself; therefore, if possible, I'd recommend out-of-state students to try renting out apartments and learning how to cook frugally if you're planning on attending UCLA!

Am enjoying being here

What I love about UCLA is the people. Everyone is extremely kind and genuine and always willing to help out another Bruin. At UCLA, you'll learn that everyone is truly unique and has their own story. Surprise yourself and join things you never thought you'd do. UCLA is the place for you to try new things and see what you enjoy. There's pretty much something for everyone. There is never nothing to do and always people to meet! Especially during the first quarter, you'll find that UCLA harbors an atmosphere that enables the most growth and maturity in yourself.

Am learning a lot

At UCLA, expect lectures for your lower division classes to be filled and seats hard to find within your lectures. Discussions are just as important, if not more important, to attend because you'll have more individual attention from your TAs. Some professors are better than others for certain classes, so be sure to ask upperclassmen or consult bruinwalk.com for professor reviews to see which classes to sign up for! Most importantly, go to office hours and ask questions. This is something that I failed to do my first quarter and I deeply regret it because most people say that they learn most during office hours. (It's also good for more personal recommendations!)

John from Westminster, CA

I am not really sure about this because I don't truly understand what a Bang for the buck actually means so I am sorry for this inconvenience...

Will enjoy being here

During my last visit to watch a play at UCLA, it reminds me of Hogwarts! I would love being here with its vast community of great people. It feels great on the campus, especially at night. There is this type of mystical feel during the night and this optimal feel during the day.

Will learn a lot

From the things I've heard from the people who go to the school, I believe the environment of UCLA is truly amazing. If I were to go to here, I believe I will learn a lot because, I don't like... I feel this studious urge to learn when I stepped onto the campus a couple months ago. My dream school forever.

Ridila from Fresno, CA

01/04/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

Students who are ready to work hard are apt for this college. Procrastinators should be cautious, because they will have to bear the negative consequences of their undesirable habits. It is not going to be an easy ride, but students who are ready to put their head in the game are going to succeed at this institution.

Tips for prospective students

Entering students need to understand that college is a realm that they are bound to be unfamiliar with. They should not fret about grades and the bigness of the school. It is all a matter of time before you adjust to your new home. It takes time to get comfortable, but once you do, it is a place that you will be very near and dear to your heart. UCLA offers an experience that you will carry with you for the rest of your lives.

Bang for the buck

College is definitely expensive these days, and UCLA is a UC that has skyrocketing tuition. But at the end of the day, you are reaping an education that is worth the money.

Am enjoying being here

UCLA is a lively college; something is always going on. When you need a study break, there are many options to explore. With Westwood close at hand, there is never a lack of activities.

Am learning a lot

It is a great learning environment with exceptional professors and teacher assistants. I have finished my first quarter here, and I could not be happier with the amount of knowledge I have gained.

Eunice from Duluth, GA

I am not in a sorority, therefore, I don't exactly know what the greek life is like.

Bang for the buck

I'm paying out of state tuition.

What to do for fun

There is always something fun to do on campus and in westwood!

Tips for prospective students

Taking advantage of all the resources is important in success!

In three sentences

University of California- Los Angeles is filled with diverse, fun-loving people. The campus and its surrounding area provide a good atmosphere for academic and social activities. It is an honorable experience to be a Bruin.

Bruin

01/18/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

UCLA offers tons of clubs, a variety of extracurricular activities, community service. If you're not into that kind of stuff you can always join some intramural sports or head into Westwood Village to catch a movie or eat dinner with your friends.

Food and Dining

The residential restaurants are pretty much all you can eat buffets which is a definite plus. The food is pretty good, but cannot replace the quality of a nice home cooked meal.

Dorm Life

UCLA offers a variety of residential halls, plazas and suites. Halls are definitely for the more social students, with plazas and suites better living environments for students who are less social or looking for a more quiet environment.

Academic Rigor

UCLA is a very competitive university. Because it is on the quarter system, it is important that you do not fall behind because it is very difficult to catch on on things once missed. GE classes tend to be easier that major prerequisite courses.

UCLA is a great school. It's know for its tough academics, but it also offers the perks of a having a very diverse community. The geographical location make it the ideal university for those who enjoy the big city.

Tin

people are always walking about the campus, and it is well-lit, so safety is not generally a problem. the only safety issues i have heard about have occurred on the outskirts of campus.

Bang for the buck

if i could live off-campus, i would. the housing is pricey, and meal plans are mandatory. often, my meal swipes (and money) go to waste, because i am unable to use all of the meals in the lowest meal plan. the education expenses for ca residents seems reasonable, however.

Food and Dining

ucla accommodates to many dietary restrictions, and there is a good variety. i follow a gluten-free diet, but between the four dining halls and the three quick-service restaurants, safe food is not difficult to find. it generally tastes pretty good too!

Dorm Life

i haven't ventured out much into the residential halls or suites, but i've found my stay in the plaza pretty comfortable. socializing takes a bit more effort here, but there are plenty of opportunities to make friends everywhere at ucla.

Academic Rigor

academically, ucla is not much different than high school. there are some professors with higher standards who give a more difficult work load, while others go easier on their students. the main differences may be the pace, with the quarters being only 10-weeks long, and the amount of classes, as most students take only three or four courses each quarter.

Tips for prospective students

use calendars and daily planners, and plan ahead! make tentative schedules for every week, so that you know what you need to do each day. it's easy to fall behind when the pace is quick, and it's frustrating to suddenly realize you need to do another assignment after a long day.

Jennifer from LOS ANGELES, CA

01/22/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Clubs and Activities

ucla has a large quantity of clubs and organizations, as well as many different activities that one can get involved with. they range from sports clubs to leadership organizations. there is honestly something for everyone.

Great for these types of students

the university is great for students who are dedicated to their studies, like being involved in extra-curricular activities, and plan on pursuing graduate degrees. it is also great for students who are open minded and enjoy a diverse and urban environment.

Bang for the buck

the education received at ucla is extremely magnificent. considering the rising costs of tuition nationwide due to the bad economic shape of the country, ucla is still ranked one of the best public universities in the nation. tuition is expensive, but the university offers many merit scholarship opportunities that aid students in being able to afford their education.

What to do for fun

there are many fun things to do around the ucla community. westwood blvd. is right next to the campus and it has a plethora of restaurants and shops where one can spend a nice sunday evening. santa monica beach and pier are also close to the campus and allow students to have a great time under the beautiful california sun.

Academic Rigor

classes are challenging, especially if we refer to the lower division courses that are held in lecture halls with a vast number of students, but the coursework is manageable if one learns to prioritize and has good time management skills.

Tips for prospective students

students should be aware that getting a degree requires a lot of commitment, thus should be ready and willing to make school their priority. it is also important to find some leisure time, as school can often become very stressful.

In three sentences

ucla offers an education that opens one up to a larger world-view, allowing one to be more open minded and conscientious about the world we live in and the people that surround us. the university offers great community involvement opportunities while offering a great education that allows students to develop good character inside and outside of the classroom. last but not least, the university fosters responsibility and motivates students to be the best that they can be in order to go on to succeed in careers or graduate and doctoral programs.

Holly from Tennessee

01/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

ucla is so safe for such a big school. they have vans to drive you places at night, escort services, a police unit that responds to calls in no time, and more. i have yet to feel scared while on campus.

Greek Life

it's very active here at ucla. there are sororities and frats with houses (panhellenic) and those without (sometimes academic-related, or ethnicity, etc). if you're a girl and you're planning on doing fall rush, please just know what you're getting into. the rush process itself is a marathon event of girl speed dating and walking up and down the huge hill on which all the houses are located. waiting until spring rush is not a bad idea at all because by that point you will have a good idea of which house is most likely for you.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

the undie run happens during finals week of every quarter. it is exactly like it sounds- a bunch of people run around campus in their underwear. usc bonfire is during fall quarter right before the big ucla-usc football game. as long as it's not too windy the fire department comes out and lights up a huge bonfire. it is amazing!

What to do for fun

ucla is not too far from anywhere in la. literally anything la has to offer is right at your fingertips. a short bus ride can take you to the beach, you can go to hike to the hollywood sign, take a taxi and go clubbing, and on. if you can come up with it you pretty much can do it. transportation makes things a little difficult if you don't have a car, and if you do parking sucks, but that is la for ya. on campus there is also always something, just check facebook.

Food and Dining

the food here really is amazing. the dining halls that go with the meal plan have such a variety and it is all delicious. there are sit-down, to-go, and snack places all covered under your swipes. if you're a science/math major your classes will be on south campus, which has food trucks and a brand new subway! north campus majors (hello non-mathy majors) have ackerman union with a lot of different fast-food options (including some healthy ones) and a cafe.

Dorm Life

it really does depend where you live, but since the latest renovations there aren't any staggering differences in building quality. i like reiber court the best because it's centrally located on the hill (the on-campus housing area), but all the buildings are relatively brand-new.

Academic Rigor

it really does depend on the professor (especially for ge's. you can technically be taking the same class as your friend, but if your professors are different it is almost guaranteed you will have completely different experiences. the inconsistency is slightly shocking at first. that's what bruinwalk.com is for! it's a ucla-specific site with prof. ratings.

Tips for prospective students

i'm from the south, so coming here was a big change. for freshman- try to live in a hall your first year. yes, the bathrooms are down the hall, but you meet so many people and all the floor/building activities are geared towards the freshman experience. also, come visit if possible! it really is as amazing in real life as it looks on paper, but you might need to see it to believe it.

In three sentences

the weather is perfect all the time; it only rained three times last quarter. there are so many resources to help you with anything and the people who work there genuinely care that you get what you came for. because it is so big there is a club or event or group of people for anything you could possibly think of!

Kesenia from Los Angeles, CA

01/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

lots of campus officers patrol daily on campus and throughout westwood.

Greek Life

sororities and frats here have a lot of fun and give back to the community too. frats host parties every quarter, open to non greeklife students. sororities host date parts every quarter, where guests are invited.

Clubs and Activities

something to do at every corner!

Great for these types of students

smart and dedicated! outgoing or shy!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

midnight yell; at midnight during finals week people on campus and through apartments in westwood will yell out their window. undie run; also during finals week, a large group of people run around in their underwear at midnight

Bang for the buck

at a state school price, you get top notch professors, smart peers, and incredible experiences!

What to do for fun

westwood has 2 movie theaters, plus there a movie premiers with celebrities almost once a month. lots of shopping and dining options all within walking distance. santa monica, beverly hills, and hollywood are all within 15 minute drives!

Food and Dining

tons of selections, all over campus.

Dorm Life

dorms are super far (long walk +huge hill) from westwood and the heart of campus...makes going anywhere a drag. food options are open late and yummy!

Academic Rigor

very challenging. ucla demands the best from every student, and while it is hard, you know you're surrounded by the best and the brightest here.

Tips for prospective students

get involved! from greeklife to dancemarathon to usac, to a number of clubs and organizations, there is a huge network of opportunities and engagement here!

Bryn from Newcastle, CA

ucla provides many resources for students, but it is raising in price.

What to do for fun

i play on the club tennis team and i am part of a sorority. i don't have a job yet, but i am looking for one. i hope to become involved in volunteer work and i am enrolling in calteach in the spring.

Food and Dining

while it is not home-cooked food, it is the best dining hall food there is. from omelet bars to teriyaki bowls, the food is not too repetitious. the food service works hard to satisfy the students.

Dorm Life

dorm life is something everyone should experience. it is a great way to meet people and you see them so often that there is bound to be someone who will be a friend. it is extremely social.

Academic Rigor

as long as you try hard, it is not too different from high school ap classes except that there is more responsibility on the student's part. at the same time, there is more time during the day to be able to study. as usual, there are classes easier than others.

Tips for prospective students

tips for prospective students are to get involved and work to make connections with the people you spend time with. while you're along for the journey, what counts is whom you meet along the way.

In three sentences

ucla has a inclusive feel to its campus. it has many activities for the students. overall, students are happy and proud to go there.

Emma from Laguna Niguel, CA

if you feel unsafe at night while walking home or back to your dorm, escorts are available 24 hours a day. the crime rate is very low in terms of assault and rape.

Greek Life

if you feel like partying once a week and you are of the male gender, plan on joining a frat. sig ep is the best, sae is your worst nightmare.

Clubs and Activities

you may feel lost as a freshman, but getting involved is the best way to make great friends while adding valuable things to your resumee. at ucla, you can join clubs that focus on things from politics to a capella!

Great for these types of students

focused, academically oriented, open-minded, somewhat of a leftist.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

dance marathon is an annual fundraising event that helps to raise money for hiv/aids prevention and research. people who sign up are invited to participate in the event in which you must dance for 24 straight hours in the ackerman grand ballroom.

What to do for fun

westwood is always fun. the getty is extremely close, and mel's diner is a great place to eat late at night with your friends. also try canter's deli on fairfax!

Food and Dining

the food here is great. the dining halls are always clean and have a great variety of dining options. for each main course, there is almost always a vegetarian option, for those of you who don't eat meat :)

Dorm Life

halls are extremely cramped space-wise. if you choose to live in a hall, live in a double so you learn how to function as a roommate and with a roommate. also, halls are very social, but all have different vibes. some floors are loud and busy, while others aren't so much. most plazas and suites are occupied by upperclassmen who haven't moved into apartments yet.

Academic Rigor

you will need to study for your tests, however that goes for any college. the math and science classes are usually the hardest for most students.

Tips for prospective students

be prepared to fight for enrollment in the ges you need. also, because this is a research university, most of the teachers here were hired because of their research portfolios or their status in their respective majors.

In three sentences

the facilities are wonderful. the teachers are mediocre. the weather is spectacular.

Razi from Redondo Beach, CA

there are security posts everywhere on campus where students can call security. the campus has its own police department which is always on call.

Clubs and Activities

there are hundreds of clubs to join and get involved in on campus.

Great for these types of students

pre-med students will face much competition, but at the same time, there are endless opportunities to

Bang for the buck

living on campus is definitely pricey, but other aspects of the university work to make up for it.

What to do for fun

better question would be, what not to do for fun. that would be a shorter answer. students can join clubs, club sports, frats, sororities, go to the gym, go to parties, or my favorite - go eat.

Food and Dining

amazing. students here are so spoiled by the food. but it even goes past the food. the aesthetics of the dining halls match the taste of the food some on campus dining halls resemble fancy restaurants

Dorm Life

very fun if you mesh with your roommates and your floor, which most people will. almost everyone is social and outgoing.

Academic Rigor

it obviously depends on the individual and innate intelligence. however, if one keeps up with homework and stays on schedule, the a is not hard to pull off at all.

Tips for prospective students

the college is exactly what one would expect. there is a club or organization for everything one may want to do in addition to the stellar academics. also, for any pre-med students or students in the sciences, there are countless opportunities to get involved with research or hospital volunteering. it is much much easier than most other universities.

In three sentences

academics are amazing as is the food. the university is so large and widespread that there are endless opportunities for any student, you just have to find them. campus is beautiful and students are friendly.

Judy from Los Angeles, CA

02/22/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

the dining halls were extremely tasty. the food at ucla was the biggest surprise when i first started to attend. the food is so good and there a few places that open late on the hill so you don't have to worry about your late night cravings while studying for a midterm.

Dorm Life

dorm life was great. the open door policy that most of the floors enforced allowed for an incredibly social setting while also allowing you to find study buddies and make new friends around you.

Academic Rigor

the academics at ucla are rigorous. these classes starting from the lower division prerequisites that we just need to get by are meant to weed students out of the major. the classes are hard for a reason.

Tips for prospective students

starting from the beginning, during the fall quarter of your first year, be on top of your game. don't fall behind. if you develop good study habits since the beginning of your college career, your upper division classes, which are much harder, will be much more enjoyable.

In three sentences

ucla is a great school that presents many opportunities for students who are pursuing even higher education. the courses and the professors are here to challenge you and help you develop a critically thinking mindset. though the academics are difficult, the experiences and the friends you make will make the four years at ucla worth it.

Student from San Gabriel, CA

02/28/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

the campus is pretty safe. you get the ucpd (a police department special to the campus) several times at orientation, so you know where to call. there are a lot of emergency stations on campus so if you are in danger, you can push a button and they'll arrive in around two minutes. there is also an escort service, where you can call the program and they'll send someone to walk you to where ever you need to go, like a buddy system. plus, the campus is really well lit.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

apparently, if you rub the bruin bear's foot, you can get good luck on exams!

Bang for the buck

tuition might seem a little steep, but it's okay! ucla offers a lot of services and support, so you never feel like you need anything extra.

What to do for fun

there are a lot of clubs and sports teams you can join. there are a lot of sororities and fraternities, as well as a lot of academic programs you can join. there are also a lot of shops near campus, so it's a bustling city life.

Food and Dining

ranked second in the nation! there's a lot of variety from day to day, and they have a lot of bars, like fruit bars and yogurt bars for breakfast. and you can eat a lot too, so that's a plus. dining hall food can get boring sometimes, but there are actually a lot of restaurants in the dorm area, so it won't get too tedious.

Dorm Life

it's pretty quiet! i live at the top, so everyone is pretty mellow. depending on which dorms you live in, you can have varying degrees of sociability, but everyone is pretty nice, and you can meet a lot of friends at the dorms.

Academic Rigor

it's pretty tough here. everyone is on their game, and you're working with people on your level and then some, so you're always on your toes. plus, the quarter system goes by really fast.

Tips for prospective students

just try your best! grades aren't everything, but keep those up. try to get into ap or honors classes, and volunteering is a plus too.

In three sentences

the campus is very beautiful and scenic; find the right places, and it's downright serene. there are also a lot of resources for students, which is very helpful. everyone here is really nice, too!

Michaela from Berkeley, CA

02/29/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

the campus is mostly pretty safe. there are always people around and walking about.

Greek Life

the greek life is big. especially freshman year. especially first quarter of freshman year. but it becomes less of a big deal and it is definitely possible to have a social and party life out side of it. or in it. what ever you choose.

Clubs and Activities

tons of clubs and activities. go find them.

Great for these types of students

anyone. prepare for culture shock though. la is very very different than anywhere else.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

don't touch the inverted fountain until after you graduate or it will add an extra quarter on to your time here!

Bang for the buck

eat at bella pita! it's good and cheap! also, again, go to the hammer museum. it's free for students and has awesome events and shows. practically every day there's something going on.

What to do for fun

go to venice! get out of westwood! go to the flea market! go to the comedy club! go hiking! go to the hammer museum.

Food and Dining

the food is generally pretty good. they mix up the menus and there are a lot of options. yeah, after a while it's all dorm food, all greasy, and not homemade, organic or very fresh. but it tastes good mostly. also, the whole free for all style will make you eat your face out.

Dorm Life

dorms are fun, and social, although it is hard to never have your own space. additionally, for the most part the rooms are small. it's ok though because you won't want to spend too much time there anyways.

Academic Rigor

this school is challenging. as an art major it's not as academically challenging as i was worried it might be but it is hard. but, you won't have class for as much time so you have more time for work.

Tips for prospective students

come and visit! get a look at the campus and the kind of people that attend definitively before you accept but probably even before you apply. ask some one who goes here what they think. it sounds like the corny, typical suggestion but it will help. most people will tell you they love it, so ask specific questions. ask about the things you are interested in. ask about the campus. don't be intimidated by the number of students. yes, there are a ton of people here, but they are broken down into smaller groups by their school, major and activities. there are counselors and people you can talk to that will make the school feel smaller.

In three sentences

ucla is giant. but because of that it has something for everyone. and la has so much to offer, if you look and branch out there is always something to do.

Alexis from Palmdale, CA

03/01/2012

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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In three sentences

i really like the campus of this school because there was so much diversity. there was a city feel to it, but not so much that it felt uninviting. overall, when wighing academics and student life, ucla is at the top of my college list.

Tess from LA Mesa, CA

very safe! well lit, you can get rides by security back to the dorms/apartments and we are in bel aire so....

Greek Life

prevalent, but not overwhelming. they have a great system which you can either choose to participate in or forget it exists.

Clubs and Activities

everything under the sun.... there are more than 1,000 student groups on campus

Great for these types of students

intelligent, driven, social, athletic

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

as freshmen you are ordained into the school by touching the sacred water of the inverted fountain. as a senior you say goodbye to the school by touching the water once again. if, at any time before your last day of senior year you touch that water, you add a quarter onto your studies at ucla.

Bang for the buck

you can't beat the university of california school system. california residents get a great deal considering we are up there with stanford, harvard, yale and princeton. price of living is fairly high, but manageable considering we are in los angeles.

What to do for fun

ucla is in the heart of beverly hills, therefore hollywood, santa monica and bel aire are just steps away. westwood is our little college town and has a few movie theaters (which host premiers every once and a while!) some great restaurants and awesome shopping.

Food and Dining

ucla has the second best dining program in the country. there are four major dining hall and four cafes on the hill. it is hard to complain when we have such a variety of choices and many healthy options. plus if you get bored of dorm food, westwood is only a few minutes walk away and has a ton of great restaurants.

Dorm Life

the dorms on this campus are fantastic for the most part. every year i have been here, the school has opened a new renovated dorm. you have the choice between a few different setups and some are more social than others so there is a bit of something for everyone.

Academic Rigor

ucla is considered one of the best schools in the country for a reason. it is not a walk through the park, but the incredible minds that surround you are a source of inspiration that will only push you to work harder. it can be competitive if you treat it that way, but it does not have to be.

Tips for prospective students

this is a big school so just be prepared to sit in on huge lectures. while this may not be a bad thing (and has not for me), you must be willing to seek out help for yourself, nothing will be handed for you. also, the huge array of opportunities can be overwhelming so my advice is to join a student group or club your freshmen year. it is the best way to meet people and you will instantly be comforted by the sense of community.

In three sentences

a college that provides the whole package- ucla offers a huge variety of majors, has one of the best athletic programs in the country, and provides endless resources for personal success.

Alison from Granite Bay, CA

the campus is overall very safe because there are escort systems and buttons around campus to press if you need help or if you feel unsafe.

Greek Life

greek life is very popular here! frats offer fun for thursday and friday nights, and sororities are very spirited and a great way for girls to meet sisters for life.

Clubs and Activities

unfortunately i have not been as involved as i should be, but ucla does has a variety of clubs one can join. get involved!

Great for these types of students

if you need a quiet place to study, ucla offers two great libraries, young research library and powell. in both environments, you can get stuff done!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

bruin cafe, called bcaf by the students, is one of my favorite places to go for lunch or a quick coffee. it is a great place to study or catch up with friends.

Bang for the buck

college is expensive, but as ucla is not a private college, you save a lot of money there but you still get a great education from one of the most prestigious schools in the world. and it is a prime college experience! ucla makes your money worth it!

What to do for fun

being right in the center of la, there is so much fun things one can do here at ucla. i love going to santa monica to enjoy sunsets at the beach or shopping at third street promenade, or even celeb spottings! also, we are close to hollywood, so that is fun to walk around at night. and so many concerts and sports events are held in la, so take advantage of the location! public transportation becomes your best friend here!

Food and Dining

the food at ucla is hands down the best food ever. every day the menus are different and offering so much to please anyone's taste buds. plus, beyond the 4 dining halls, there are 3 quick service restaurants that are to die for and i love having lunch at these places. also, the meal plan includes these quick service places!

Dorm Life

i love living in the dorms because they are all relatively close to each other so you can visit friends in other dorms. also, my floor in particular is really social so we do a lot of things together and it is where i met some of my closest friends here at ucla. i love dorm life! always so many fun activities to keep you busy.

Academic Rigor

4 stars says that ucla does offer a challenging academic discipline. but the fact that it didn't reach 5 stars shows that it is not too challenging that you won't enjoy your college experience. just like any college, you have to do your part to obtain good grades, which is totally manageable.

Tips for prospective students

try out ges that suit your interest, join a club, and immerse yourself. also, i would recommend living in a hall since they are so social and you are always having fun!

In three sentences

this school has so much to offer, from a great location full of opportunities and internships galore, to boasting a wide variety of majors and minors, as well as unique classes to suit any interest. i love ucla because no matter what your passion is, you can make yourself at home and find something to suit your interests here. not to mention, the food is great and the weather is perfect!

Zurit from Sylmar, CA

there are many things to do on and off campus. from sports and recreational activities, to shopping in westwood, hollywood, and santa monica.

Food and Dining

the food is amazing, although i have to admit it can get repetitive.

Dorm Life

i live in one of the oldest buildings, but they are overall great!

Academic Rigor

it is very challenging, but there are many groups and organizations that offer support and assistance.

Tips for prospective students

i would say that they should be ready for a multitude of different students.

In three sentences

everything about ucla is great, from the faculty and staff, to the professors and teacher assistants. there has been a couple of racial incidents which have brought our students to react in a positive way. in trying to achieve diversity, there are relationships being formed throughout campus.

We're located conveniently on Westwood, so there are many places to go within walking distance. Feeling a bit adventurous? You can also take the bus to the beach or visit the beautiful Getty.

Food and Dining

We are ranked #2 in the nation for dorm food.

Dorm Life

Unlike the other UC campuses, UCLA dorms are all located on The Hill. Dorms are really social so you'll have no problem making friends.

Academic Rigor

UCLA is known for being one of the top UC's. Classes are challenging, but you will get a good education out of it.

Tips for prospective students

Be yourself. There are so many clubs out here, you will be sure to find one that will fit you. Have fun

In three sentences

UCLA is a very diverse community offering many different majors. The people are really friendly so it's easy to make friends. The location is close and convenient to many stores on Westwood and Santa Monica.

Anonymous

03/22/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus is really safe because people are there all the time, and when you come in, they give you the number of the police, so if anything does happen, you can contact them directly. there are also shuttles that can shuttle you to where you need to get to at night.

What to do for fun

I like to talk with my friends at home, cook with them, and go to my club meetings. I am in APHC, which is a health club for asian pacific people.

Food and Dining

I live off campus so the food I eat is not dorm food. Dorm food is food for the first few days, but after a while, it gets kind of repetitive and not as special anymore.

Dorm Life

I live off campus with a few of my friends, and I have a great time every day.

Academic Rigor

It depends on what you take, because different classes have different people taking them, and depending on the people you might feel the class is harder or easier.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure that you stay on top of all of your school work because most likely your teacher is not going to check your homework or make you turn it in every day, so don't do everything the night it is due or else you will suffer much.

In three sentences

UCLA is an amazing school for high achieving students. Everyone in classes are the top of their high school class, so you will be competing with talented and focused students, so don't slack off. There are also many activities that you could do, many clubs to join, so don't just study all day.

Melinda from Bakersfield, CA

03/22/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are light posts everywhere. There are also these call boxes for emergency. You will also be informed many times of what numbers to call in case of emergencies. There is also an escort service number to call that will come pick you up and walk you back to your dorm if you are ever studying late on campus and feel the unsafe walking back by yourself. You can also choose to receive Bruin Alert text messages that will give you texts warning of anything that should be avoided.

Greek Life

I am not involved in the Greek Life but there are quick a few Greek and Asian-Greek sororities and fraternities. There are also co-ed fraternities that are specific towards your major or career as well. There is a pre-medical fraternity and one for business-econ majors.

Clubs and Activities

There are clubs for almost anything here. There are cultural clubs and religious clubs. There are clubs geared towards a specific occupation where they usually help you in informing how to reach that dream job. There are over 1000 clubs that you can learn about at the Enormous Activities Fair that will occur in the beginning of Fall quarter.

Great for these types of students

UCLA is great for students who are really diverse in their interest just because the school has all these different classes to offer. There is also a very large selection of clubs that consists of over 1000. The campus does have a lot of hills, so it is great to help squeezing in the little exercises every day.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Finals week traditions includes undie runs and midnight yell. There are also a lot of urban legends revolving the campus that you would hear about at orientation, so I don't want to spoil anything by sharing that here.

What to do for fun

There are many things to do at UCLA. There are intramural sports. There are tennis courts, basketball courts, and the gym available for all students. There are also many events held by clubs that are always going on which you can find information about simply by walking to campus because if there is an event happening, you will get flyered.

Food and Dining

The dining halls are all you can eat, buffet style. The breakfast menu is usually always the same but the lunch and dinner menu changes every day. You can check what is on the menu online. Feast is a pan-asian dining hall that recently opened which is really popular. There are also quick restaurants where you can order and get food in paper or plastic containers. This is convenient in you can still sit in the restaurant to eat or you can bring it back to your room.

Dorm Life

There is not much privacy for yourself if you live in a triple but it is not something too overbearing. Bathrooms are clean as they get cleaned every morning. The social aspect of the floors are there since you would have like a floor government who are always working on informing you about events and planning floor events as well.

Academic Rigor

Speaking as a South Campus major, the classes are challenging. This also depends on which series of prerequisites you take depending on if you are a life science or a physical science major. I definitely have never studied so hard in my life.

Tips for prospective students

I would definitely say come visit the campus just to make sure it is right for you. Personally, do not choose UCLA for its prestigious name if there is another school that might benefit you more specifically.

In three sentences

UCLA is a very welcoming campus. It is a large enough campus where you can find your alone time when necessary. The population of students here is large enough so that you can easily find your group of friends.

Lily from Arcadia, CA

Great, fun, time consuming. Want to have a great experience but be seen as just a partygirl/guy in UCLA? Come and join!

Clubs and Activities

Many diverse clubs. Pick any! They don't discriminate the amount of clubs you are in. Only sororities and fraternities will be a problem if you attend their rivals.

Great for these types of students

Great for hardworking and smart students. If you choose studying for your final over drinking and partying, you come here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Frat row, many students go up there for parties. If you want your night to be a complete blank but you felt like you've had extreme fun, go there. Don't go too crazy!

Bang for the buck

Affordable for CA residents. But after 2012 tuition and housing will raise. Budgeting cuts ruined most of the fun. Don't know what they are spending all our money on....but we get new dorm buildings? Yay?

What to do for fun

Go to Westwood, a great place to shop. Walk around campus! A lot of space to explore! Or take the Blue Bus straight to Santa Monica!

Very difficult classes if you do not study, read your readings, and attend lectures or discussions. Professors are knowledgeable, take in their words of wisdom.

Tips for prospective students

Work hard, study smart, don't waste your chance in success with parties. You can party, but in moderation. Make your time here worth while. If something comes up, be responsible and do the right thing.

In three sentences

I believe my school is accepting and can help students achieve their goals. My school does not discriminate by race, sexuality, pregnancy, color, national origin, religion, gender, physical or mental disability, medical condition, ancestry, marital status, age, sexual orientation, citizenship, or service in the uniformed services.

Lisa from Pleasanton, CA

There are so many things to do for fun at UCLA. You can visit the nearby Hammer museum for free, check out Westwood shops, go clubbing and frat party hopping at night... LA is a great place to be.

Food and Dining

Food here is delicious! It is known amongst many that UCLA has one of the top food services. Also, a new Asian fusion dining hall called FEAST recently opened and its great.

Dorm Life

People are generally, quite social, especially during first year. You'll get to meet plenty of new friends as long as you yourself are open!

Academic Rigor

Fellow students are pretty competitive at UCLA, so this should drive you to work even harder.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved in activities on campus to make your college experience more worthwhile.

In three sentences

UCLA is a great place to be. It has beautiful weather and campus, and plenty of things to do. The people around you are social as well as hard-working, and you are surrounded by well-rounded people that also motivates you to be the same.

Cyndi

03/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I always feel safe walking around campus, and it's very well lit at night. There are also security escort services or the evening van service, which you could call if you didn't feel safe walking by yourself. Occasionally we do get crime alerts, but exercise good judgement and you should be fine.

Clubs and Activities

There are a lot of clubs out there for all sorts of interests. There are so many pre-med groups that you have trouble telling many of them apart, and there are many cultural groups as well.

Great for these types of students

Motivated, high-achieving, fun-loving

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

They say that if you touch the waters of the Inverted Fountain before you graduate, you won't graduate on time.

Bang for the buck

Tuition's risen a lot over the past years, and it's only going to go up even more. However, as far as value goes, I'd say UCLA's still a pretty good value, as it's cheaper than most privates and has higher quality faculty than most.

What to do for fun

Santa Monica and the beach is only about 30 minutes away by bus, and if you have a car, Koreatown and other parts of Downtown LA are a must-visit. Beverly Hills also has some great shopping centers.

Food and Dining

UCLA's food is top notch! Our newest dining hall, FEAST at Rieber, has some of the best Asian food around, and the best part is, it's all buffet style! There are also quick service restaurants with take-out food, which is really convenient.

Dorm Life

The residence halls are very social, but plaza rooms and suites are significantly less so.

Academic Rigor

There are plenty of excellent students everywhere, and the classes are by no means a cakewalk. Be prepared to do your share of work here, even if you excelled in high school and AP classes.

Tips for prospective students

Always be proactive! UCLA is a big school, so you're going to need to be willing to get out to there to get what you want.

In three sentences

UCLA is right in Los Angeles, one of the cities with the most opportunities for students. And for all you pre-meds out there, the UCLA Health System is touted as the best in the west, so you can easily get plenty of experience. There are always unlimited ways to have fun here, as the beach, downtown LA, and so much more all a single bus ride away.

Victor from Oakland, CA

04/03/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

At UCLA, there are a multitude of activities and groups in which students can join. There are many clubs, groups, and intramural sports that students can become a part of. There is endless activities that are bound to spark your interest.

Food and Dining

Dining on the UCLA campus is one of the most beloved features by UCLA students. UCLA offers a wide variety of dining services that you can choose from, including dining halls and and take-out style restaurants, all of which serve up delectable cuisine.

Dorm Life

Dorm life at UCLA is unique and convenient. The dorms and on-campus housing is all located on a hill; because all of the dorms are located near each other, this increases the social aspect of UCLA. Also, the dorms are located only a short walk away from the main campus.

Academic Rigor

UCLA offers a wide array of fields of study that intrinsically bring about the rigors of academics. As one of the top-rated universities in the world, the workload and levels of difficulty of classes at UCLA are to help you get the most out of your education.

Tips for prospective students

To future bruins: congratulations on making a great choice in furthering your academic career. My most important tip would be to be excited to be taking next step in furthering your goals and aspirations.

In three sentences

A very diverse campus, UCLA's is home to students origination from across the United States and spanning across the globe. In addition to a world-class education, UCLA offers countless activities for students to be a part of. The experience at UCLA is one that cannot be matched by any other university.

MissLiv

04/17/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

Several all-you-can-eat cafeterias, with an abundance of food choices. Great salad bars, sweets, and they have delicious main entrees of meats and a diversity of items. Great on-campus food, with a variety of restaurants and coffee shops around every corner!

Dorm Life

Truly, it depends on roommates, floormates, and the dorms that one is living in. The dorms are crammed with 2/3 to a room, and because they aren't very large, it can become a hassle throughout the school year. However, the dorming community is a small city of its own, which brings students together.

Academic Rigor

It was this hard to get into the school because it is even harder to stay in. There is a tremendous amount of studying and dedication to schoolwork, attending review sessions and office hours, and teaching oneself the material.

In three sentences

UCLA will truly make you challenge yourself, academically, socially, and with your extracurriculars. The competition of students is beyond imaginable, and often takes away the purpose of fair grading because professors do not want to further fuel competition. The social scene can be positive, if one makes it to be, by stepping out of his or her comfort zones.

Margarita from Los Angeles, CA

04/19/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Ever feeling unsafe? Ever need someone to walk you to your car at night? There are phone booths all over campus you can use that dial the UCPD and they will send someone immediately to escort you or to attend to any unusual behavior you may report. Overall I feel safe on campus.

Great for these types of students

ALL students.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Undie run! Wednesdays of final's week everyone goes crazy and runs around in their underwear at midnight. There's also the midnight scream you can hear all over town during midnight when thousands of students are screaming.

Bang for the buck

I've seen UCLA suffer from budget cuts over the last five years when I entered as a freshmen. More students sitting on the floors because of crowded classrooms, professors stopped printing out and handing out the syllabus on the first day of class.

Dorm dining halls--all you can eat! Definitely gain your freshmen fifteen or fifty if you're not careful. A bit expensive.

Dorm Life

Over it. Its great for entering students such as new freshmen or transfers, a way to build relationships and help get through your first year by creating a communal space with other students who have similar interests.

Academic Rigor

Don't get behind! Keep up with the work and review review review! Its hard to catch up. Communicate with professors if you are having personal issues ahead of time! They will work with you! Let them know whats going on.

Tips for prospective students

Ask questions, ask questions, ask questions. Join a group, organization, club or find a support system that will help keep you grounded. Its very easy to slip through the cracks so make appointments with counselors, if you don't like one particular counselor try another one who you feel will understand you and your situation better.

Kevin from Irvine, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

I've walked around campus at 2AM in the morning and I've felt totally safe.

Clubs and Activities

VSU and from what I've seen so far, cultural clubs are very accepting and engaging.

Great for these types of students

All around. Everyone. Everyone will find a place at UCLA

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't step on the 6th step of the Jan Steps

Bang for the buck

Public school. Private- quality.

What to do for fun

Westwood.

Food and Dining

Ranked 2 I believe. FEAST.

Dorm Life

Sociable. The best.

Academic Rigor

Work Hard, Play Hard

Tips for prospective students

Apply. You never know if you'll get in, and its worth it too!

In three sentences

Aside from the beautiful campus, the general attitude that UCLA has for new students is just so positive unlike other schools that I've been to. You really can't beat UCLA, they're the jack of all trades. Definitely.

Stephanie from Los Angeles, CA

04/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

If you feel it's getting a bit dark and you don't want to walk to your dorm you can call campus escorts to walk you. If your on campus past around seven at night there's an evening van service that will drive you to your dorm, I recommend walking with a friend if it's dark, lets be real UCLA is still in LA although I would say it's pretty safe. Be careful of leaving your laptop out though, there has been several laptop thefts in cafe's and dining halls in the past few years, so just keep it in a locker, with you, or in your dorm.

Greek Life

Lots of Sororities and Fraternities here at UCLA, but it's not overwhelming. You don't see too much hazing or anything, but there's always a lot of students in formal attire heading to the Greek houses on Thursday's, which is considered the party day here.

Clubs and Activities

SO many opportunities at first I felt overwhelmed by it, I suggest not taking on too many your first year because it'll burn you out. UCLA offers a number of clubs from art, writing, and archery to boxing, dancing, and religion. There's acapella groups and even just regular study groups, you'll always be able to find some group or activity if you just ask around or walk down the main walkway of campus where groups and clubs hand out flyer's and sometimes sell snacks.

Great for these types of students

I'd say almost all types, granted everyone's going to find things they like and things they don't like. I've seen a diverse number of students here from the ones who study all night for a quiz to the ones who never study. It all depends on what you want to do also, if your a student who hates writing, stay away from the humanities classes and you won't have to worry about it other than some general ed classes, and if you dislike math then you'll want to avoid sciences and mathematics courses.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's a midnight yell around finals to release stress, where many students will go outside and yell as loud as they can for one minute. The dorms have a tradition called Furry Friends for Finals where they bring in dogs for you to cuddle with and relax during your Finals. There's a sculpture garden over by the Art Department that has some amazing sculptures where you can lay in the grass and admire the art.

Bang for the buck

Get on friendly terms with your Teaching Assistants, they're honestly the ones who will be deciding your grade so it's always best if they understand what your trying to convey in your papers or discussion topics. UCLA is a UC so tuition is increasing, thus you'll want to stop by the counseling office and ask for some help hunting down scholarships. If you absolutely hate humid environments, I suggest looking elsewhere, while it's not as sunny and consistent as people make it out to be, it can get pretty humid here.

What to do for fun

There's usually some sort of even going on down on campus, whether it's activist, rally's, book sales, art exhibits, performances, games, farmer markets, or just good old live music. You'll never be bored, and if you don't find these things interesting UCLA has a bus straight to Santa Monica and the beach, you can also take a few buses over to Koreatown or Chinatown if you want, and there's a shopping center right next to campus. (P.S. not only is there a Museum about a mile away, but there's also one right on campus!)

Food and Dining

The food here is so tempting! Especially the cafe's, so you'll want to make sure you check out the John Wooden Gym or else you'll be feeling the freshman 15. They have multiple cafe's (Asian food, Subs and Soups, Italian, Mexican, etc..) and dining hall's that are a buffet set up.

Dorm Life

The on campus housing can be amazing, I live in a suite at the top of the hill so it's quite a walk down to campus. However it keeps you in shape and gives you time to process your thoughts before class. There's lots of events, fun get together's, and dinners with your dorms, and there's always a residential assistant if you have any questions.

Academic Rigor

Granted, the classes here can have a bit of work. I have found if you manage your time and balance fun with studying you'll do fine. It's not as competitive as people make it out to be once you get here, get to know some of your peers and your teachers, do your work when it's due and you'll definitely have time to relax and keep up on your hobbies.

Tips for prospective students

If your not already involved in your community, get on it! UCLA really loves students who are involved and interested in their environment. Learn study skill that work for you and if you don't know what you want to do with your life, be honest on your UC application with that. UCLA loves being a place where students can not only pursue what they want to do, but create and discover who they want to be as well.

In three sentences

UCLA is a great school for opportunities, but you must be willing to take them. The professors are often busy but your Teaching Assistants are an amazing resource and extremely interesting. UCLA is like it's own small city, diverse people, food options, and beautiful scenery just watch out for squirrels and hipsters.

Rachel from Burbank, CA

05/03/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

The food at UCLA is incredibly diverse, as well as tasty. There are options for vegans, vegetarians, and even kosher meals. If you have a dietary restriction, UCLA Dining can accomodate it. They have lactase free milk, gluten free options, and so much more. They also have a wide variety of foods. You can go an entire year without eating the same dinner twice, or you can pick your favorites and have them over and over again. It's all up to you.

Dorm Life

Dorm life at UCLA is pretty awesome. There are multiple different types of rooms all offered at different prices. The halls (traditional dorms with communal bathrooms) are the cheapest and most social. The next cheapest option would be a plaza. Plaza's are like the rooms in the halls only slightly larger, and they have a private bathroom. They are slightly less social than the halls because people have to leave their rooms less often. The final, and most expensive option is a suite. The suites are situated like apartments, only without a kitchen. They have private bathrooms, and a living room. I highly recommend that first year students live in a hall as it provides the most social interaction. It makes it easy and convenient to meet new people because you are forced to leave your room more often. Plazas and suites, while larger, are better suited to second or third years who already have a group of friends.

Academic Rigor

UCLA is a difficult school. Anyone who tells you otherwise is lying. If you want to keep the kind of grades that got you admitted in the first place, you will have to work at it. That's not to say that great grades are impossible, as some people do get them. However, be prepared to accept the fact that you might not be the top of your class anymore. Everyone here was at the top of their high school class, not everyone can be the top of the class here too.

Tips for prospective students

UCLA is huge. It's both the best and the worst thing about the school. On one hand you meet new people everyday and you have an almost unlimited array of options. On the other hand, its size makes it difficult for UCLA to really feel like home. My advice is to join a group on campus as soon as you can. It will help make the university smaller, and give you a community. That way you get the best aspects of UCLA, without sacrificing your need for connection and community.

In three sentences

UCLA is a place for dedicated students willing to work hard. If you are not willing to work harder than you ever have before, it is not the place for you. That being said, there is an over abundance of activities, and plenty of opportunities to have fun.

Find out what major you are interested in advanced. Find out where you want to go to graduate school. Apply for financial aid, grants and loans. Get involved in your community by volunteering and joining clubs.

In three sentences

UCLA is where my deceased father went to graduate school for his master's in Engineer. I have been accepted into UCLA for this upcoming fall of 2012. I am so proud to go to my dream school and to follow in the footsteps of my father.

Alex from Cupertino, CA

I've never felt unsafe on campus even when walking back to my dorm at 3 or 4 in the morning.

Greek Life

I have not participated in much Greek life, but know that there exists somewhat of a tradition of Thirsty Thursdays instead of Fridays.

Clubs and Activities

I joined two clubs and love them both. I've gone on multiple trips with each, and enjoy spending time both during club hours and outside club hours getting dinner and whatnot. There are so many clubs here that if you're looking for a club, you can definitely find one.

Great for these types of students

If you're more of a laid back, friendly type of person then I would say this campus is right for you. The people here are some of the nicest people I've ever met, which is nice because most people then don't have to worry about whether or not they'll be accepted for various quarks they might have. Personally, I find that these quarks are what make individuals who they are, and in a more hostile campus, such quarks can be squashed in the competition or from fear of ridicule.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a rather fun tradition of tunneling. In essence, people will find doors into tunnels that lead to various places in UCLA. While the fine for this can be expulsion, it's rumored (and generally accepted) that the main penalty is simply being forced to exit the tunnels. It can be a fun adventure to see where you start and where you can end up.

Bang for the buck

The price of UC's has been going up recently, however, the amount of education as well as the overall experience justifies the price it takes to enroll here. The people are friendly, the professors are great, and generally people here are here on some form of scholarship.

What to do for fun

With a car present, all of LA becomes your playground. There are often half n half runs, which is a Boba / Pearl Milk Tea establishment that has some of the best pearls I've ever tasted. There are plenty of clubs on campus that host various activities. Disneyland is also fairly close by, as well as Universal Studios, Six Flags, and Knotsberry farm.

Food and Dining

UCLA was rated as one of the best dining universities in the nation, and it's not difficult to see why. There is a consistent staple of burgers, pizzas, and pasta, but to add variety there are specialty dishes which differ at each hall for every meal. Often times the rotation is so far that I hardly notice if there is repetition of food. Possibly the only draw back is the distinct lack of soup and over salting of many items. The soup is left open and kept quite hot, causing evaporation, and consequently concentration of the soup.

Dorm Life

At times you can get stuck with a dead floor, but this can easily be remedied by either going to clubs or another floor that you know one person on. People are always coming and going, and except for the hours between 3-4, you can probably find someone traveling through the hallways.

Academic Rigor

I have been challenged in my chemistry classes like never before. The science courses here teach a new depth to aspects that were presented only briefly in high school, but here the professors both understand and practice their lectures before they are given. This results in a smooth and often entertaining lecture.

Tips for prospective students

There is always a needed balance between school work and play. My advice towards any new prospective student is to study hard and play harder.

In three sentences

UCLA has one of the best campuses around. The academics along with the prestige of graduating from such a difficult school open so many doors. This combination of prestige, academics, scenery, and the overall friendliness present on campus made UCLA into the dream school that it is.

There are few vegan restaurants on campus, but some nice places in Westwood village.

Dorm Life

High school cont...

Tips for prospective students

Be prepared for competition in any science courses; go to office hours if you want an A (it is the only way an overloaded prof. will remember your name); spend time in some of the outdoor areas-they are relaxing and are helpful in de-stressing; finally go to the libraries (they are both conducive to productivity and provide a way to study in peace and quiet).

In three sentences

UCLA has exceptional staff and beautiful, old buildings in northern campus, with the option of sleek modernity in the southern parts of campus. However, due to budget cuts in the state of California, the classes have been enlarged to such a size as to preclude successful acquisition of knowledge. That being said, I grew both as a person and as a critical and analytical thinker as a result of my enrollment at this campus.

Fabian from Pinole, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Bang for the buck

Although the tuition is expensive, there is a lot of financial aid given to students who need it.

What to do for fun

There is a lot to do for fun on the campus, whether you like to take walks or party up the night life. the campus has a little bit of something for everyone.

Food and Dining

The food located around the campus is very diverse and really delicious.

Dorm Life

Even though i have not yet moved into my dorm, i can tell you that they are nice, and offer allot to students.

Academic Rigor

The campus is full of very competitive students, although this might sound a bit scary to some students, it is nice to know that there will be friendly competition to keep your academic performance at your peek.

Tips for prospective students

Prospect students should come down and experience the campus. Online video tours don't nearly showcase the beauty of the campus.

In three sentences

The School is beautiful, probably one of the nicest campuses that I've ever visited before. The atmosphere in the campus is really relaxed and welcoming, everyone seemed to be really open minded and genuinely nice. I would rate UCLA as one of the top public schools in California, right next to CAL.

Tammy from San Leandro, CA

Walk out into westwood where there are other food options, movie theaters, and hang out spots. Go to the Wooden Center, go to the beach.

Food and Dining

There are many options to choose from but I feel like the food is really fattening. The dining halls are buffet style. You can eat what you want, but definitely after a year, you get tired of the same foods.

Dorm Life

Despite costs, the dorms are very fun to live in. You get to meet a whole group of people that you most likely would not have met otherwise. Also, you feel a sense of connectedness to the community. As first years, this is exactly how you should feel.

Academic Rigor

The course load is difficult, however it is definitely manageable. There are tutoring programs and writing centers to help you get through your classes.

Tips for prospective students

Live on campus your first year--even though it is very costly, the experience is very worthwhile. You get to meet many people and feel as if you belong in the UCLA community. Be involved in activities on campus. It'll make your college experience worthwhile.

In three sentences

UCLA is a very diverse school, in terms of demographics, majors and clubs. There are resources all over campus that students can go to to get help with any type of difficulties. Living on campus, you get exposed to these resources more often than you do living off campus, but these resources are available to everyone all year long.

Anonymous

Westwood. Exercise in the Wooden Center. Explore LA. Have with friends in the dorms or on campus

Food and Dining

Excellent. Many choices and all delicious.

Dorm Life

Many choices available depending on financial needs, personal preference and convenience.

Academic Rigor

Overwhelming if you allow it, but preventable.

Tips for prospective students

Stay ahead on classes and studying. Avoid procrastion.

In three sentences

The university provides quality and valuable education to all its students. It is competitive and can be stressful if you let it. However, the overall experience is growing and will be one of the best of your life.

Evelyn from Long Beach, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

Westwood village is home to a movie theater that hosts tons of movie premiers. Located within 20 minutes of the campus is the Getty, the Beach, and of course various college hangouts.

Food and Dining

UCLA offers diverse and healthy food choices. If you are unhappy with campus dining, then you can head into the Westwood village for anything ranging from Japanese to Mexican.

Academic Rigor

I am transferring in and have only taken one course. I think the rigor depends on the professor/ TA who is teaching the course.

Tips for prospective students

Choose a major that best suits you and remember that your major does not dictate your future. Choose a major that you are able to receive good grades in and that interest you.

In three sentences

UCLA is located within a city that is filled with class and prestige, not to mention the gorgeous SoCal weather experienced year around. The campus itself is overwhelmingly beautiful, yet, the architecture adds an ambiance that takes one's breath away. The happy students strolling through the campus also adds to the UCLA prestige.

Ryan from San Pedro, CA

05/31/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Lighting around campus and in surrounding Westwood neighborhoods can be much better. There are a few shuttles provided by UCLA that take you back to your room around Westwood from Thursday to Sunday night, which is nice, and campus police is becoming more aware of the special needs of women on camus as well. As with any school of this size, there's always bound to be strange people around, hence an increased sense of awareness is usually a good idea.

Greek Life

Greek life is pretty active here, and it is basically what you would expect from the bro-ish dudes and the valleyyy girl sorority types. Much of it is superficial, and if you can't already tell, I'm not into it.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Jumping in the fountain by Powell and screaming out your window at midnight during finals week is a prized UCLA tradition. Also undy-run during finals week is really fun. Chilling at the sculpture garden is always relaxing.

What to do for fun

Go to the beach, surf, snowboard, wakeboard, hike, go to DTLA, roam Sunset Blvd (in our backyard, literally). You can do this all around UCLA, all with the weather of heavenX3.

Food and Dining

UCLA Dining has SPECTACULAR food, not kidding one bit. We have regular dining halls with an omelet bar on weekends, 2 'cafes' with paninis, wraps and gourmet pizzas, and Feast, a pan-asian restaurant that is very yummy.

Dorm Life

I lived in the transfer housing, which is pretty different from living in the dorm 'halls'...more private and less FRESHMAN CRAZY PARTY LIKE!! Events led by your dorm RA's are nonstop and can be really fun to get to know people. I suggest living here at least for your first year if you're coming in as a freshman.

Academic Rigor

I am a North Campus major (aka SocialSci./Humanities) and although we get routinely bashed by the Sciency's in South Campus, the work we do is definitely no slouch. Essays are huge at university, and it helps to get your structure down early because professors will not always be so helpful with the 'logistical' part of your work (nor should they particularly). We still ave a great writing center for that though so if you're not the greatest writer just head there and you'll be golden!

Tips for prospective students

Take the time to get into clubs and build several groups of friends. Also, get to know your professors because they are always great references for jobs, internships, graduate school and so on.

In three sentences

UCLA is a place very accommodating to the interest of many different groups, whether that be minority groups, LGBT groups, international students, transfers (me!), etc. The professors here are brilliant, most of them very helpful and inspiring, and the students like to have a good time as well as spend time in the super awesome recently renovated Young Research Library. Weather is unashamedly Californian, and yes the women are b-e-a-utiful.

Maheen from Inglewood, CA

06/02/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

UCLA takes care of its students. We have an escort service for students who have stayed late and want to be escorted both outside of campus as well as to the residence halls. Despite this being a public campus, there are hardly any fights or reports of assault. If you make the right choices and allow yourself to depend on our security, we've got you covered!

Clubs and Activities

Innumerable. If you have an interest, you are sure to find a club for it. And if by chance you don't find a club, you can start one! Clubs range from sports to religious to volunteer to other hobbies like anime.

Great for these types of students

UCLA is great for outgoing students who love diversity and like an open, tolerant environment.

What to do for fun

UCLA is located right next to a shopping district filled with great stores like Urban Outfitters and BeBe an even larger choice of restaurants like California Pizza kitchen or Diddy Reese. Sometime i take the Big Blue Bus to Santa Monica with my friends to visit the beach or shop at the 3rd Street Promenade (and only for $0.50!). And of course there are always events being held on campus. From free movies to cultural shows, carnivals and concerts. You hardly have time to get bored.

Food and Dining

With four dinning halls and three quick service restaurants, the possibilities are endless. The only thing I am sometimes unhappy with is the lack of vegetarian choices at the quick service restaurant.

Dorm Life

one word: AMAZING. I am a first year living in the residence halls and i have no regrets. I have great roommates and dorm-mates who are friendly and understanding. The staff is great and make sure you have a comfortable stay, taking caring of any concerns you have.

Academic Rigor

It is ranked as one of the best universities in the world and it's academic rigor is one the reasons. With that said, the professors are always willing to help with office hours and even scheduled meetings.

Tips for prospective students

Do not hesitate to approach people, whether it is a student, a professor or your counselor. Most importantly: get involved in the clubs and organizations on campus! The list is numerous and ranges from anime club to the Muslim Student Association. Don't limit yourself to the classroom and venture out. I promise you, you will not regret it!

In three sentences

UCLA is an excellent school for those who value value education, diversity AND extracurricular activities. The environment is one with open minded and friendly student, accessible professors and welcoming staff that takes your opinions and wants into consideration. As a first year, i have had many unforgettable moment that i know i will cherish for life.

Anonymous

06/03/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

1. Drug, alcohol and smoke free. UCLA is in one of the safest parts of LA. It is a nice campus. School has campus police, (UCPD). It is secure place to live. Student hang out 3 in the morning without any fear.

Clubs and Activities

1. Chancellor's Associates. 2. Member of French Club. 3. Political science student Organization.

Great for these types of students

It is hard for me to say what is not great for a student if you are a student UCLA. Everything works for all types of students.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

I like to hang out in our botanical garden which helped me in write poems. I took one creative writing class and got incentive from nature. I have lots of painting composition which I found in our UCLA Botanical garden.

Bang for the buck

#1 which I believe, it is very important for a student. In this economy and budget constrain both state and federal, for me it's a big deal. It helps to go for education beyond campus. Like study abroad, quarter in DC or inter campus.

What to do for fun

Take advantage of all free food and concert series on campus. If possible join election campaign. Participate university At art and performance events.

Food and Dining

1. Best food.

Dorm Life

This is the only thing I lack. Due to financial problem I could never enjoy dorm life. But encourage students if possible go for that.

Academic Rigor

Choose classes like Honor. Take 199 which is research course. Select class carefully. Go for double or at least minor. Participate lecture and forums.

Tips for prospective students

Don't just count on GPA. Your involvement for community makes big difference. Commitment for your school is a big issue for future school and job opportunity. Extra curricular activities and leadership will bring opportunity. And last but not least don't forget to study hard.

In three sentences

1. UCLA is number 1, with an enrollment of more than 38,000 undergraduate and graduate students. 12th in the prestigious Academic Ranking of World Universities. 25th in national universities.

Anahit from North Hollywood, CA

06/06/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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In three sentences

UCLA is a place to grow as a person, but more importantly to transition from a teenager to adulthood. UCLA has one of the biggest, if not the biggest, libraries available for students to access, do their homework, or research.

Jennifer from Riverside, CA

06/07/2012

Reviewer is A past student here.

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Campus Safety

I never felt unsafe while attending UCLA or had anything stolen from me. Like all campuses, there have been incidences. But overall, UCLA is safe. I've walked home after midnight from both parties and the library and never experienced anything suspicious. The campus police do a good job of patrolling and there are relatively few incidences.

Greek Life

I did not participate in the Greek Life. But my friends that did definitely recommended it. The sorority and fraternity houses line opposite sides of the school and are a good option for housing. The Greek life is very active and good for people looking for a big group of friends. I have not heard of any extreme hazing or out of control behavior from the Greeks. I think, for the most part, they have fun while supporting each other in their academic and extracurricular pursuits.

Clubs and Activities

I participated in Global Medical Training. We set up primary care health clinics in rural areas of Panama. I participated in Division I athletics as a Bruin rower for two years and thoroughly enjoyed representing my school and the physical challenge. There are all levels of competition at UCLA. You can participate in Division I athletics or club sports if you're very competitive. If you just want to meet people and get some exercise you can try intramural sports which include basically everything including Quidditch from Harry Potter. Another excellent extracuricular activity is working for the Daily Bruin, the school newspaper. It is one of the best in the nation and a great supplement to your resume. There are volunteer groups in almost anything you can think of and you're free to start your own. There are also a lot of career-oriented groups to help guide you along.

Great for these types of students

UCLA is great for all types of students. I have met so many extremely different types of people in my last four years here. I have friends that are going on to medical school and the peace corps and I have friends who are going to be artists and pastry chefs. Because UCLA is such a big school with a variety of areas of study and activities, it fulfills most students' wishes.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

If you're a bruin, then you hate the Trojans. You may think you won't get consumed in all this silly rivalry but trust me you will. For example, at the moment you may think you will never say something as ridiculous as You can only use a Trojan once, but a Bruin lasts forever! but you will!

Bang for the buck

Tuition costs for the UC's have increased substantially in the last four years. Financial aid has not. However, the UC's are excellent schools and much cheaper than privates. In California, at least, I think you get the most bang for your buck at a UC.

What to do for fun

It really depends on your interests. But even if you're not interested in sports, I recommend going to at least one sporting event preferable a basketball or football game, but there are lots of free volleyball, soccer, and waterpolo games as well. By attending a game, you get to witness the school pride and get caught up in the thrill of cheering your team on. Its an experience you need to check off. I also recommend Dance Marathon. It's 26 hours of dancing to raise money for AIDs. If you don't want to dance that entire time then be a moraler and just go dance for a couple hours. Finally, I recommend the back to school concert at the beginning of each year. We usually have an awesome group and a lot of students go with a big group of friends. There is also a movie premiere and dance that night. The back to school activities during zero week are a lot of fun. So get out there, get involved and enjoy!

Food and Dining

UCLA is one of the best schools in the nation for food. After two years, you may get sick of it but I honestly miss the dorm food. It is convenient and excellent. We have an omelette bar every morning where they make your omelettes or eggs to order. There is also an array of cereals and bagels. There's also usually pancakes, waffles, or breakfast sandwiches. For dinner and lunch there are always a variety of entrees and you can look online to decide which dining hall you'd like to go to.

Dorm Life

I lived in Dykstra Hall for my first two years at UCLA. It is the oldest residence hall and definitely not luxurious. Nevertheless, I enjoyed my two years in this dorm and one of my best friends to this day was my roommate freshmen year. Most freshmen live in a triple. It is crowded but its also part of the college experience. You meet tons of people in the bathrooms and in the halls. There are also always a lot of activities going on on your floor and it's a good way to get initiated into college.

Academic Rigor

UCLA is one of the best schools in the nation for a reason. The classes that are the most challenging tend to be the prerequisites for your major. G.E.'s tend to be easier. So it's a good idea to balance out how many hard and easy classes you're taking at once. UCLA is on the quarter system so you only take 3-4 classes at a time. Ask your friends about the intensity of a class before enrolling or check the bruinwalk website for reviews of the professor.

Tips for prospective students

As a graduating senior and soon-to-be medical student, I recommend making the most of your time in college. To achieve this you need to learn how to balance your time set aside for studies and for extracurriculars. To study effectively, you need to know what to study and what not to, how to study, and when to study. The best way to learn all this is to network. Ask your friends that have taken the class how strictly the professor or TA grades, what the tests are like, if they still have notes for the class or old exams etc. Go to office hours. Ask the professor questions and make sure you know the answers to the questions other students are asking. Then go to your TA's office hours and find out if you understand the material better when your TA presents it. Use test bank services on campus or get old tests from friends. Find out if tutoring is offered on campus for that class. Don't be afraid to use all your available resources. If you're not using them and everyone else, then you're just spending twice as much time figuring out the material and you're missing out on time to enjoy college. Once you've learned to balance you're study time, find some activities you want to get involved in that you're passionate about. If you plan to attend graduate school, then it's good to have some extracurriculars you've been involved in throughout your college years. There are activities for everyone including sports, newspaper, building houses, health clinics, teaching, music etc. Get involved and enjoy your college years. As a bonus, the people you meet in these activities may be able to also help you with your classes.

In three sentences

UCLA is an excellent school that offers students a variety of subjects to study, superb athletic teams to follow, and extracurricular activities to get involved in. This school has something for everyone, but it does require it's students to be active about seeking out opportunities to fulfill their interests. Furthermore, its located in beautiful Westwood just below Bel Air and five miles from Santa Monica Beach.

Enrique from Sylmar, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Bang for the buck

Diddy Reese is worth it.

What to do for fun

I like to read, want to swim, and will try out for club tennis.

Food and Dining

Second best in the country after Cornell. What else is to say? It's an awesome dinning food, and if by any weird reason you don't like the food, you have excellent Westwood Restaurants to choose from. Beware, that might be expensive. One exemption: Diddy Resse. BEST COOKIES IN THE WORLD. And they are not expensive.

Dorm Life

It's just awesome. It is great place, with great people. And it is in LA, next to Bel Air, Santa Monica, Malibu, Rodeo Dr. What else can you ask?

Academic Rigor

It's a world-class university, don't let the appearance of the place fool, it's a tough place. But, if you are in, and willing to face the challenge, then it will be worth while.

Tips for prospective students

Be motivated, show pride and dedication in what you do. Try to think differently (please see Apple's Think Different Ad). It is great to see beyond. Don't be stressed on your SAT (unless you apply to Samueli); do take care of your GPA.

In three sentences

It's paradise in a subtle way that makes me feel in a bubble of perfect. And at the same, I know UCLA is a world-class university that has potential for discoveries--such as 1969 with Prof. Leonard Kleimrock and the internet. And at the end, it has a vibrant student body that makes it all perfect.

George from Cypress, CA

100s of clubs and activities...and if you can't find it...you are welcome to start a club/activity of interest.

Great for these types of students

All!

Bang for the buck

Great! Amazing classes. Great professors. Clean, beautiful campus. Top-notch athletics and activities. One of nation's best hospital/medical center on campus.

What to do for fun

We are surrounded by fun! Santa Monica on one side. Westwood on the other side. Bel Air on the other side. LA/Sunset/Wilshire on our fourth side. Get involved in school activities. Support Dance Marathon!

Food and Dining

Awarded 2nd best in the nation! Everything you could possibly want.

Dorm Life

Great! Beautiful rooms. New buildings! Fun activities. Safe!

Academic Rigor

We are prepared well for our careers and post-graduate work.

Tips for prospective students

Get all As. Take all courses available to you. Work hard. Get involved in your school. Prepare your application way before the application deadline. Write and re-write your application essays.

In three sentences

UCLA is the absolute best! We are afforded many scholastic and involvement opportunities. We are taught by only the best professors. Our chancellor is progressive and supportive of all students. The entire incoming freshmen class goes out into the community for service projects the week before school starts. Go Bruins!

Cynthia from Lincolnshire, IL

06/18/2012

Reviewer is A past student here.

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Campus Safety

The only times you have to worry are those late thursday nights when everyone is drunk and predators are on the prowl. Luckily, UCLA clubs provide rides from the frats to the dorms, sororities, or apartments. Since walks from the frat can be up to 20 minutes long, these rides are a MUST for the ladies. If you are in a big group, walking is a viable option.

Greek Life

Percentage-wise, it is small, but since UCLA has such a HUGE number of students, the Greek Life on campus is highly active and beneficial. I'm not going to write reputations and such here, because I've come to learn that each sorority has it's range of b****es to sweethearts and each frat has it's range of douche bags to gentlemen. The rush process for girls is super structured and formal, so obviously, it's hard to REALLY get to know each house/each potential new member.

Clubs and Activities

ICARUS CONTEMPORARY DANCE COMPANY!!! that's the dance group I was in- it's fantastic. I was in a dance group in high school, and it pales in comparison in terms of how close you get. At UCLA most clubs try to bond to a family-level with trips to Norcal to go snowboarding or crazy initiations. UCLA offers a wide variety of clubs, something for everyone. But if you can't find something... you can make your own club!

Great for these types of students

nerds. the fun kind!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Midnight yell- at midnight during finals week, everyone SCREAMS out their window (we all need a little stress relief, eh?) Unfortunately, the dorms cracked down on quite hours and bans the midnight yell; I had to do 15 hours of community service for getting caught my first quarter! Students in the apartments or greek housing still yell, but some rebellious (and much sneakier) dorm students do as well! Undie-Run- on the wednesday of finals week, every quarter, students gather under this main bridge by the dorms- IN THEIR SKIVVIES! Some people like to have fun and dress up (giraffe costumes? rave-wear?) but usually, the dress code is UNDERWEAR!

Bang for the buck

I was paying out-of-state tuition, and still believe I got my bang for the buck. UCLA is full of the best and brightest, as well as the quirky and funniest. Like I said, a haven for nerds of all breeds.

What to do for fun

Each fraternity has a quarterly each quater on a Thursday night. These quarterlies are huge themed parties- guys have to be on a guest list, and girls can get in until they reach max capacity. Luckily, UCLA has a ton of frats, and only 10 weeks per quarter, so if you can't get into one quarterly... you probably can get in the one across the street! Frats can get nasty in terms of cleanliness and grossly drunk fratstars, so if that isn't your scene, there are also apartment parties if you look for them, and fun things like red-carpet movie premiers and the sort in downtown Westwood.

IT'S FANTASTIC! While the actual dorm are a bit cramped in size, you get a heck of a consolation prize with RAs who truly want to help you (the RA application process is fiercely competitive at UCLA, hence, you get bomb RAs) There are always trips to tourist-attracting LA locations, dorm floor dinners, and games played in the common room. Each dorm floor has its own theme, and students on the same floor usually end up forming family-like bonds. It's incredible =]

Academic Rigor

It really all depends on the teacher, but most classes are academically challenging, as they should be. Definitely check www.bruinwalk.com to get the latest reviews and average given grades of professors at UCLA.

Tips for prospective students

Study. I know, that seems obvious, but I'm not talking books here. Study the way your professors portray their thoughts, how the brilliant peers around you absorb information, how successful alumni got to where they are. There are a multitude of opportunities to grow as a person, as well as a scholar, so please, don't forget- college is about more than your GPA.

In three sentences

University of California-Los Angeles is undoubtedly the best haven for nerds all around the world. I'm not talking just the stereotypical nerd either; these nerds know how to socialize, study, and succeed. The ingenious staff, aesthetically appealing campus, and actively involved students make it easy for any student to succeed while also enjoying the blissful sun of Los Angeles.

Yadira from Pacoima, CA

06/20/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

UCLA ensures that its students and entire community are in the safest hands possible. Bruin Alert messages any students via text message in case of emergencies. There is various security on campus and the massive top ranked hospital at UCLA for any emergency and personal needs.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

UCLA has this tradition of initiating new Bruins into UCLA by making them touch the water in the fountain. There are also other traditions such as the well known rivalry with USC. UCLA and USC rivalry is common in football games and other activities on campus.

What to do for fun

There are about for pools for the hot summer. There is always performances in the UCLA live auditorium. This includes free or low priced events for UCLA students. Of-course, it is LA. Whether you want to visit a museum, catch a night dance, go to the beach or simply have fun in a boat or hiking near the campus-it will be accessible with the stay at UCLA.

Food and Dining

There is so much to offer in all sections of the entire campus. Whatever section you are in, there will be easy and delicious food for your access. The food is a buffet style dinner, breakfast, lunch with so many options. Burgers, Mexican, Italian, soup or a simple salad is just a few things of what the venues in campus have to offer.

Dorm Life

There are various options for all students. Whether you want to live in a residence room with two other partners or alone in a high class suite, the options are there. And along with the that, comes a delicious place that can truly feel at home. Beautiful views and tons of recreational tasks to do in our out of UCLA.

Academic Rigor

Of-course, the work will be difficult. It is the second ranked UC after all. Even so, if you know how to put dedication and effort, it will pay off to have an education at this prestigious school. Because it is only up to the effort that you put in.

Tips for prospective students

Do not plan to have a bike because there are too many hills and stairs. Take advantage of the surroundings. There is always something going on in Los Angeles. Be prepared for ultimate adventures, because there is so much to offer at UCLA.

In three sentences

The campus is beautiful with a unique feel of modern and traditional. People feel welcomed into the school whether students or not. UCLA is in the best place for a calm and relaxing stay on campus and a fun and adventurous night in LA.

Michael from Idyllwild, CA

It's the West Side of Los Angeles - you'll see Bentleys, Aston Martins, and Ferraris rolling around town, so you know it's safe.

Greek Life

About 17% of the school is Greek. Great, nice people, but if it isn't for you, there's plenty of other things to do.

Clubs and Activities

We have over 1,000 registered student groups - and you can always create a new one!

Great for these types of students

ALL. There's a niche for everyone.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Inverted fountain is unusual, Royce Hall is classic.

Bang for the buck

One of the world's premiere institutions for less than a private school.

What to do for fun

Sporting events (108 NCAA Championships, most of any university), explore Westwood, explore Los Angeles, go to the beach, hang out with friends, make new friends, go see a free concert, spot a celebrity on campus, try to figure out what movies were filmed where on campus (there's a lot), eat all the food...

Food and Dining

The food is incredible. From Asian to Mexican to Italian, there's almost any option available, including kosher, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Dorm Life

People are friendly and there's so many opportunities to connect with other students and find great activities.

Academic Rigor

Tough, but there's a reason the degree means so much.

Tips for prospective students

Take a tour, get to know campus, make the comparison and see how great it is.

In three sentences

The best experience of my life. I could go on for hours about how much I love this school. It couldn't be a better place.

Matthew from Moreno Valley, CA

06/25/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

Very rarely will you encounter any problems at all while at UCLA. Let's remember where it is and how big it is. The campus security is everywhere and immediate even in those events where you do need them.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Traditions: Spring Sing, Annual Undie Run, Beat 'SC, Bruin Day Locations: Royce Hall, Jaans Steps, Inverted Fountain, The Hill ... and these are only a few. When you come next year you'll find out about it all :D

Bang for the buck

I realize it may appear as a big price tag (even for CA residents) but when compared to a multitude of other Universities, UCLA is a fraction of the cost and perhaps the most inexpensive, Top 25 Universities in America. Especially, when compared to that run-down, so-called, university known as USC (haha friendly school competition).

What to do for fun

It's UCLA so SOMETHING is always going down. In addition, let's not forget where UCLA is located! Literally, if you want to go to the beach, it's a 10 minute drive - go ahead and go crazy and have fun at the Santa Monica Pier, the Promenade, go indulge in an ice cream sandwich at Diddy Riese (a UCLA must!!), go visit Beverly Hills, go shopping, go see a movie on or off campus, go to Hollywood, downtown LA, go hiking, or visit the Griffith Observatory, the adventures are endless.....so go on and explore!

Food and Dining

UCLA is ranked #2 in the entire nation for on-campus food & its dining halls (#1 is Cornell University). So, enough said I believe. I know personally I loved everything I ate when I stayed and they change the menus every single day inside dining halls. The food diversity is excellent and you can even use swipes at some surrounding restaurants outside of campus, too!

Dorm Life

While at my stay I lived in 3 different dorm room styles and residences. However, they were only about a week each and therefore I may not be that knowledgeable about the ins-and-outs of everything. But, what I can say is, Triple's aren't bad at all (I actually prefer them over double's) and the shared-bathroom styles can be convenient. The different residential areas have their own positives & negatives so keep that in mind. For instance, De Neve is the closest to the actual college campus (less-walking), Reiber is the newest refurbished complex and has 3 dining areas (plus is the heart of The Hill), and Hedrick is really diverse but also has easy access to surrounding city, campus, and pools/gym, etc.

Academic Rigor

UCLA's Academic Rigor shouldn't come to any surprise from anyone. We all know that basically every course here is practically an honors course but, remember, just like anything else, if you dedicate time and effort to your classes, reading, studying, participation, etc. it's doable and interesting. No one should be intimidated by the courses/teachers and see them more so as a captivating challenge.

Tips for prospective students

If you have NEVER been on campus (like me before I came to Bruin Day), there is nothing but hills, hills, hills! That being said, be ready to walk uphill, downhill, uphill, and repeat - so wear comfortable shoes. Also, don't feel worried about there being 40,000 students, UCLA does a great job at making the campus feel like a home and I personally met some extremely nice people during my stay. Lastly, keep your mind and your options open; I know several people who from the get-go limit themselves and UCLA has too much to offer to completely cut-stuff off. This includes: food, courses, clubs, trips, and various opportunities! :)

In three sentences

An incredible and beautiful, large campus with a close-knit community feel. It's impeccable location - right in the heart of iconic Los Angeles and bordered by the three B's: Brentwood, Bel Air, and Beverley Hills - is perfect for an escape and a wonderful journey into the city on free days. Finally, UCLA has the finest faculty in the world and some of the best students as well, it's truly just a humbling honor to be accepted and you'll meet a great deal of the most amazing people ever here: Those just like you and others whom are complete opposites.

Student

The food is always changing, and has since changed since I was a freshman. It's overall decent.

Dorm Life

New dorms have been built, so they look like hotels and are great. It is a great way to meet people, especially in halls.

Academic Rigor

There are always competitive students in the classes, specifically science courses. North campus classes are less rigorous and don't require much study time if professors are chosen correctly.

Tips for prospective students

It is a great university with amazing weather. There is sufficient amount to do in Westwood. The area surrounding it, such as apartments, is not that lavish. Overall, the environment at UCLA is friendly, social, and fun.

Brittany from Canoga Park, CA

06/25/2012

Reviewer is A past student here.

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Food and Dining

UCLA has some of the best food! When I was on the tour, I was told UCLA's cafeteria was ranked second-best college food in the nation, with only Cordon Blue, a cooking school, out-doing UCLA. There's places to eat everywhere, and it's not hard to find something everyone you're meeting with would like.

Dorm Life

I did not live at the UCLA dorms, but I was told by some of my friends who did that dorm life is mostly enjoyable. It's a bit of a walk up and down the large hill most of the dorms are located at, yet many people make great friends with their roommates and floormates.

Academic Rigor

Most of the courses I took were not easy, even those with titles that may make you assume otherwise. However, I love a challenge, and I feel I truly got the best out of my education by working hard to do well.

Tips for prospective students

Do not let the quarter system get the best of you! Begin reading your materials early, and keep up with them as the weeks pass by, as you don't want to cram at the last minute for a final! However, don't forget to take the time to enjoy social activities, especially one of the many clubs that meets on campus!

In three sentences

The campus is beautiful, the professors are excellent, and the courses are engaging. I would definitely recommend any interested student to attend here. The work was challenging, but I feel I gained a great deal from it.

Stephanie from Whittier, CA

There are many museums on campus, many restaurants, a bookstore. UCLA is walking distance from Westwood and there is a lot of fun there too.

Food and Dining

The food is delicious.

Dorm Life

Lots of social events.

Academic Rigor

Very difficult.

Tips for prospective students

Be ready. UCLA is not an easy school and it is a huge change from high school.

In three sentences

UCLA is a very prestigious school and has very difficult academics. The classes are big and the teachers are sometimes not so great. There are many hills as well, so walking is always involved at UCLA.

Brian from Los Angeles, CA

There are isolated incidents but overall, the campus is very safe. We even have the ability to call the campus police to drive or escort you safely back to your dorms.

Clubs and Activities

Like I said, UCLA has over 900 clubs and many acclaimed sports teams. It is almost impossible for someone to not find something to do.

Great for these types of students

UCLA is definitely great for all students but appeals to the more social students. As a UC, we have one of the smallest campuses but a high population density. It really encourages students to be more social and active.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is an inverted fountain where you touch the water once in the beginning of your freshman orientation. You aren't allowed to touch the water again until your graduation, lest you be cursed with bad luck.

Bang for the buck

I truly have loved my experience at UCLA so far and I encourage prospective students to come if they truly want too. I will say to not let the cost affect where you want to live. However, due to ever rising tuition costs, I do say 4 stars instead of five.

What to do for fun

There are over 900 organizations and clubs so you are bound to find something you're interested in. There is also Westwood right next to UCLA where you can dine out and shop. We also have a bus system that drives you straight to Santa Monica where you can go to the shopping promenade or the beach.

Food and Dining

UCLA is highly regarded as possessing some of the best food of all colleges. I have to agree because there are so many choices between the four dining halls we have and the three cafes we have. The dining halls rotate on the foods they provide while the cafes stay consistent, offering Mexican, Asian, and Italian cuisines.

Dorm Life

I was lucky enough to be placed in what is considered the most social dorm, Dykstra, with all freshman students. I loved dorm life because every day, it felt like you met a new, fascinating people. There are also many programs designed to help facilitate socializing.

Academic Rigor

The classes, like most colleges, are extremely difficult. The introductory classes for many majors are designed to weed out the students that cannot handle the workload. The professors, unlike high school teachers, are not there to answer any and all questions that you may have. You must develop the ability to study hard and take advantage of the resources you have such as office hours, the on campus writing center, etc.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid if you aren't doing as well as you think you should be doing because there is an adjustment period for many students. Make sure to ask for help if you need it. Don't focus so much on your studies that you forget to make friends, join clubs, and have fun.

In three sentences

It's an incredibly diverse campus with so many students of various origins. The classes will force you think quickly, learn quickly, and above all, work hard. The school cultivates an extremely positive environment for current students and prospective students alike.

Zendaya

Delicioius food. So many options in the dorm area and on campus as well.

Dorm Life

Very social dorms. Shoot for the resident halls since they tend to be more social.

Academic Rigor

Keep on task. The quarter system is very rigorous and goes by exxtremely quick.

Tips for prospective students

Attend the freshman or transfer summer orientation. It is pricey, but extremely important.

In three sentences

A great university with many academic and hollistic enrichment programs one can and should take advantage of. Great for the politically active and those interested in making a differnece in their community. In the heart of Los Angeles creates a gret urban enviornment.

Macaria from Vista, CA

On campus is pretty safe, but there were multiple muggings and robberies in graduate housing and on the perimeter of campus.

Greek Life

I hear it's good.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many clubs that it would be a challenge to not find one that you're interested in. There are also free movie premiers in Westwood, which come out before they hit theaters.

Great for these types of students

Great for every kind of student.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Rubbing the heel of the foot of the Bruin bear statue before a final or midterm will bring you good luck.

Bang for the buck

Excellent education, but it's still very expensive. I didn't get any grants or free money from financial aid, so it was difficult to pay for school.

What to do for fun

Taking the bus to Santa Monica pier or Third Street Promenade is a popular weekend choice. It takes around 20 minutes and is really simple to do. There's also the option of renting a zip car on campus, and taking it out for the day.

Food and Dining

The dining halls serve excellent breakfast. As for lunch and dinner, it gets extremely repetitive. Pasta, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, grill cheese, soup and salad bar, cereal bar, and a different entree each night. You'll find yourself wanting to eat off campus a lot, by the end of the year. There are also quick serve restaurants, where you can get chinese food, italian, and fresh wraps and salads.

Dorm Life

I stayed in a double, shared bath, in Rieber Terrace. The people on my floor were a delight. It was very quiet generally. If you're looking for a more social experience, stay in the residence halls. As a freshman, I ended up living with all upperclassmen and transfer students. It's not a bad thing, but I only made 3 freshman friends the entire year.

Academic Rigor

Thus far, as a college freshman, I have not felt that any of my classes were particularly challenging, as far as GE classes are concerned. I felt that a lot of my high school AP/IB classes were just as hard, if not harder. I'm sure this is only because I have not dipped my feet into chemistry or physics yet. As far as calculus goes, it was a little bit of a challenge.

Tips for prospective students

Even if you are not particularly strong in academics, you can improve your chances of getting in by having a great record of participating in extracurricular activities. TAKE CALCULUS in high school. I made the mistake of choosing statistics as my senior math class, instead of calculus, and I found that I had to work harder than my peers, just to be on the same page as they were.

In three sentences

It's a small campus with big opportunities. There's a place for each and every person to find a niche and create a group of friends. You get back what you put in.

Brian from Corona, CA

07/03/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are many incidences that occur on or near campus, since UCLA is indeed, in Los Angeles, a city which has some notoriety for crime. People, especially late at night, such as between 11PM and 4AM, should be aware of their surroundings, walk in well-lit areas, and walk in groups. Although there are van services that provide free rides from apartments back to campus, they are not active during all hours.

Greek Life

Fraternities and sororities provide very close-knit brotherhoods and sisterhoods, respectively. First, a fair warning: Greek life requires a heavy amount of time and money, especially during the quarter you decide to rush. However, it is all worth it, due to the tightly-bonded friendships, fancy housing, and social events. For those who feel like social Greek organizations are not right for them, there also exist professional co-ed fraternities, which include, but are not limited to, those whose career interests include medicine, law, and engineering. Professional Greek organizations provide opportunities and resources to further advance educations of the members.

Clubs and Activities

There are many clubs for everyone. Each person, no matter what, is guaranteed to find a club he or she is interested in. Joining clubs allows quick connection with people who have similar interests, therefore instantly establishing friendships and socialization. In addition, each organization hosts, usually weekly, social events or parties, and therefore, every student, regardless of their hobbies and interests, also has many opportunities to have fun.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

During welcome week, a memorable tradition is called Bruin Bash, which first, consists of a concert starring very famous singers. Secondly, there is a dance, which lasts all night. Next, during the Wednesday of every finals week, is the Undie Run, in which students run around campus in their underwear to relieve stress, and also to symbolize freedom due to the imprisonment from the intense studying for finals.

Bang for the buck

Although the tuition is very expensive, the experience that UCLA provides is worth much more. The academic difficulty serves as valuable scholarly experience. The traditional events provide free items, such as shirts and food, and in addition, are also very fun and are great leisure activities. Lastly, there are dozens, if not hundreds, of organizations, to allow everyone, who is interested in anything, to have a great experience.

What to do for fun

During welcome week, there are plenty of events, usually catered to the freshmen, who do not yet have a group of friends. These events are extremely fun, and include dances, social gatherings, dinners, and shows. Clubs, organizations, and fraternities and sororities, also host parties and social events for members, as well as non-members who are interested in joining.

Food and Dining

The cafes and dining halls provide a great variety of foods, no matter what people's diets consist of. The dining halls have plenty of food, that people can eat until their stomach's content, and in addition, sitting down with friends provides opportunities for socialization as well. If people are in a hurry, the cafes provide quick, satisfying meals to grab and go. Eventually, people may get bored of these foods, but there are many restaurants just outside of campus for people who want something new.

Dorm Life

The dorms contain limited space, as expected. However, the experience from living in dorms is totally worth the price. Dormitories instantly provide friends, study partners, and people to eat with, any time of the day. Furthermore, living close to campus is also very convenient, allowing quick attendance to classes and other campus resources, such as the libraries.

Academic Rigor

This is UCLA, an extremely famous, prestigious school. It is not surprising that everyone here is an extremely hard worker. Therefore, classes are structured in order to see who is the harder worker. For such reasons, the academic rigor can be quite intense. However, people should simply do the best they can do, because they cannot do better than the best. Instead of competing and attempting to be better than the others, people should instead, focus on being better than the person they were yesterday. Only then, can people achieve their maximum potential.

Tips for prospective students

College is not extremely difficult, but should not be underestimated. As a matter of fact, the most difficult aspect of college is not classes, but rather, it is time management. Make sure to make every minute count, and whatever you are doing, do it with a passion or don't do it at all. If you are working, then work hard; if you are having fun, then play hard. Furthermore, this may sound very cliche, but get involved in school as much as possible. UCLA has so much to offer, for each one of your interests. Make sure these four years are amazing, so not only will you have fun, memorable, valuable experiences, but you will have just as much fun telling your story, of these amazing times, ten years from now.

In three sentences

UCLA has been my dream college since I was twelve years old and being here truly feels like a dream. The experiences I have here are valuable beyond all expectations and completely priceless. This amazing school has so much to offer to ensure that anyone who attends receives the greatest education, in terms of all of their interests, career choices, hobbies, and passions.

The dorms are spacious, depending on what type of accommodation you choose to have and the social aspect is good.

Academic Rigor

UCLA is one of the top schools for a reason, so do not get lazy.

Tips for prospective students

I advise future students to make your schoolwork your focus because that is why you came to college. I want students to take advantage of all the opportunities to be more involved on campus and keep your eyes open for jobs/

In three sentences

I really enjoy the diversity and appreciate the help that teachers and students give to freshman. The campus has one of the largest person to space ratio, but that is also the best part of the school. I love being able to be so close to he city and have multiple options to entertainment.

Frank

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

You can go virtually anywhere. There are nature parks, amusement parks, city life, the suburbs, and on and on. You will take 4 years at UCLA and you will still not finish seeing everything there is.

Food and Dining

Excellent dining facilities. You will love UCLA if you are a foodie.

Dorm Life

Dorms may not be the best, but the living environment is fine for the average communal space. Don't expect peace and quiet though.

Academic Rigor

Don't expect to slack off at UCLA, you will have to be fully committed to get a passing grade in each course.

Tips for prospective students

Be very proficient in whatever subject you plan to major. With high marks in your major, the admission letter can come back as a yes.

In three sentences

The school is the best deal that you can find in California- if you are from California. It provides the full Los Angeles/ Southern California experience, and at an affordable rate. It even is one of the best public programs of the world!

Very competitive depending on your major; the sciences are tougher courses compared to non science courses.

Tips for prospective students

Begin research early!

In three sentences

It is a great university with many research opportunities for students looking into PhD programs. The campus is big, and is at the heart of Los Angeles. Jobs are easy to find for students with financial need.

Kelli from Spring, TX

07/09/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus is very safe. They check you in every night at the dorms, which makes sure no one not allowed is getting in. There are escort services that will walk you anywhere at night. there is Campus Crusades that every thursday gives you a ride home. And there is a UCLA police department that is very helpful and is truly concerned about the students

Greek Life

The greek life is so much fun. It really makes this huge university a lot smaller and introduces to so many people you would have never met.

Clubs and Activities

Go greek! join a club! Getting involved on campus is the best way to meet people and I promise you wont regret it. Its a great way to network as well.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Study at the young research library, I didnt discover this place until my last quarter and I wish I wouldve known abotu it beforehand. Theres even a coffee shop in the library, and they have these couches called pods that are amazing to study at.

Bang for the buck

The education you get for the tuition you cannot compare to anywhere else UCLA is ranked very highly among all universities in the US and it is the top public school. The only downside is that things off campus like in westwood are pretty expensive.

What to do for fun

Westwood is just a 10 minute walk away where there are multiple places to eat, movie theatres, shopping. Santa monica is just a 10 minute drive and you can even take the bus there, where you can go relax on the beach or go shop on the promenade.

Food and Dining

The food on campus is AMAZING! From Bruin Cafe you can get soups and wraps and salads, to Cafe 1919 you can get paninis and gelatto, to 3 dining halls that have such a vast selection of food, to Rendez-vous with a selection of chinese or mexican food, and to Feast which varies from asain to hawiian gormet food- you cannot beat the food on campus at UCLA.

Dorm Life

Most students are worried about getting stuck with a random roommate or worried about living so close to another person, but UCLA really does match you up with someone who you will enjoy living with. The RA's are all so helpful. The front desk will always answer any questions you have. In all the dorms there is also people who stand by the elevators and you have to swipe in every night, this gives you an extra security blanket which makes living there very safe.

Academic Rigor

The classes are pretty tough, but every professor cares so much about their students they are willing to go above and beyond to help you get a good grade and really understand the material. Use the resources available to you! there are multiple great libraries on campus, TA and professors hold office hours that allow you to speak to them one on one- these are great go to them!!

Tips for prospective students

The campus is beautiful, the weather is amazing, you really cant find a better place to live. UCLA gives students the chance to get a great education without the prices of private schools.

In three sentences

It really is a great school with amazing academic oppertunities. There are so many different classes to choose from. The only negative I have found so far is there is very limited parking available and there are not that many minors available anymore.

Brandon from Bakersfield, CA

07/10/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Greek Life

Greek Life is a very close-knit community where you will meet truly amazing people who are support you in all your endeavors. They know how to balance having fun and investing time into their academic careers.

What to do for fun

Hangout in Westwood and go to a movie premiere. Take the Big Blue Bus to Santa Monica for 50 cents and hang out in the beach, on the pier, or in 3rd Street Promenade.

Food and Dining

AMAZING.

Dorm Life

The rooms are fantastic but can be small depending on the residential building.

Academic Rigor

Classes are not easy or a walk in the park, but do open your mind to new topics and perspectives when analyzing the world around you. It is necessary to study and not fall behind.

Tips for prospective students

If considering UCLA, be prepared for large classes. It may become easy to feel like a number in the classroom, however, if you utilize office hours from your professor and TA, you can easily grab the attention of your professor and make your whole experience much more enjoyable.

In three sentences

UCLA is a fantastic school that offers a wide range of majors and minors that covers numerous amounts of differenty fields of study. The campus is beautiful and takes part in active volunteerism throughout the LA community. Along with the university comes amazing faculty and staff who are always willing to help their students.

Sonal from Irvine, CA

07/11/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

I personally chose UCLA because I felt the safest and most comfortable here out of all the colleges I was considering. And yes I chose UCLA over that older UC up north and the private college in LA that Bruins don't like a lot, for that matter.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Ask your tour guide or any UCLA alumi to teach you the 8-clap. Seriously be a Bruin!

Bang for the buck

There are some places on campus that offer free printing (with a limit per day) so look out for those.

What to do for fun

Go explore the neighborhood!! Westwood, Beverly Hills ~~ so much more that you can probably explore on a nice long walk.

Food and Dining

UCLA HAS THE BEST FOOD!! Seriously, I'm afraid I'm going to gain so much weight. But then again, UCLA has a lot of stairs too.

Dorm Life

UCLA has the most spacious and largest dorms of any college I've visited! It's definitely worth it for the space and the beauty.

Academic Rigor

I'm taking a science course right now in the summer and, believe me, you have to study...A LOT. You have to earn your grades and understand the concepts (which you might have skipped in high school) so is it hard? yes, but it's worth it. (By the way, if you study enough (not 24/7) you'll do fine so don't worry.)

Tips for prospective students

Visit the college, ask questions and get your answers. Imagine yourself here, and you'll just know that UCLA is one of perfect places to spend four years of your life here.

In three sentences

UCLA gives the best vibe for a college campus - it's large, it's beautiful, it's modern yet at the same time it preserves its older architecture and traditions. Its location is ideal, as well since it's one hour from the beach, one hour from the airport, and in the middle of one of the most developing cities in the United States. More than anything, the spirit of being a Bruin is an altogether unique experience that you are sure to enjoy at some point of your time here.

Peyton from Big Bear Lake, CA

07/15/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I have never ever felt unsafe on or around campus. Any time of day and any time of night I feel comfortable and I feel like there are many great resources available to me if for some reason I feel uncomfortable or unsafe. I can say this as a 5'6 girl with full conviction.

Greek Life

Greek life is huge. But don't think that you must be a part of it to make friends or have fun. There are many advantages that accompany Greek Life like networking and always having something to do. I tried it and it wasn't for me. It takes a lot of time and a large lump of money but I cannot vote for or against it because the experience is very subjective and it depends on what you want to get out of school. I recommend that everyone experience fall rush, because you are probably going to rush at some point anyways, but make sure to go in with an open mind. And a note for the girls, rush is really fake, so try and get a feel for some of the girls from the houses outside of rush; or don't actually commit to a sorority and rush again in spring after you know people from different houses etc. Don't think that the only social life lies within the Greek system although it may seem like it. I'm happier and more relaxed without being in a sorority but have joined other clubs that better suit me and I still have my fun regardless. :)

Clubs and Activities

SO many wonderful things to choose from. There are hundreds of clubs under any hobby or major or any other category you can fathom.

Great for these types of students

Great only for those who are motivated. If you don't try than you won't succeed at UCLA. You must be able to get through your emotions and do well in school and adjust previous academic and social habits.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

If you are to go to UCLA I think you should take sports seriously and take pride in the school. It really helps you make friends and share comradery with almost everyone on campus.

Bang for the buck

I am supporting myself through school 100% and have numerous loans all over the place, and I wouldn't take back a cent of it. I think the education is great, the networking is ridiculously good, and social life is exactly what you make it and there are so many wonderful opportunities in both career benefits and social benefits.

What to do for fun

For fun you can attend all of the events that are never ending on campus. Or you can go to the beach which is my personal favorite. This may be more difficult for some though because I was lucky enough to have my car at school.

Food and Dining

The food is delicious! There are soo many options! But be careful...Make sure to check online on the daily menu for the nutrition information because much of the really good food contains a lot of fat and the freshman 15 accumulates quicker than you think if you aren't aware of what you are eating.

Dorm Life

Personally, I was not a fan of the dorm life. UCLA is not like the movies as far as parties down the hall are concerned (although the frats are:) ). The dorms are very social and most people enjoyed them but I am not a fan of small talk which is much of the socializing that went on. Everyone knows everyone on your floor and it is nice because you see a lot of the same people that you know on the hill (where the dorms are located) and also around campus.

Academic Rigor

UCLA requires a lot of your own discipline and time management which is something that most of us did not experience in high school. We are used to homework assignments etc. UCLA is like most colleges in that you are required to study on your own time and without being told, but I think that the amount of information to be known is much greater and the papers are typically longer and more difficult than most schools. Also, there is a heavy amount of reading in most of the general ed classes that you can not put off.

Tips for prospective students

I would say that you should make sure to be ready for a change. I am pretty sure that UCLA is much different in any aspect than most of the experiences that high school kids have had thus far. If you give UCLA the opportunity to shine then it will. There are so many different clubs and organizations. Greek life is huge, but you don't have to be a part of that to be social as many people think. I tried it, it wasn't for me, and now I am a part of other groups, but I have friends in all corners. Do not get discouraged by the quarter system and the work load; it gets easier. And one last thing, DO NOT TAKE 8am CLASSES IF YOU HAVE A CHOICE!!!

In three sentences

UCLA in my opinion is such a great school academically. It is extremely challenging but also so fun if you take advantage of the many opportunities that are available. I would not want to go to any other school but I can see how many students might get overwhelmed by the size and energy of the school, although this was not a problem for me.

Kimberly from Bakersfield, CA

07/18/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

There is always campus police available.

Greek Life

There are several types of sororities/fraternities that aren't just to socialize but to help you make connections with workplaces and participating in some increase your chances of getting into medical school.

Clubs and Activities

Tons of clubs and activities to part take in on campus for any type of interest you have.

Bang for the buck

UCLA is definitely worth every penny. Mention it to anyone and they will instantly be impressed and amazed.

What to do for fun

You're in LA there is so much to do. You can go to several beaches along the shore or go to Hollywood to take a walk on CityWalk.

Food and Dining

They have a lot to offer on and around campus. You will never get bored or disgusted of the food they serve on campus.

Dorm Life

You get to choose what style of dorm you want so you set up your social life expectations.

Academic Rigor

It's a very well known school for its academics. The class sizes are large but they always offer discussions and workshops for free.

Tips for prospective students

Apply no matter what. If your dream is to go to this school then do it, I didn't think I could make it but I did.

In three sentences

A beautiful campus known for its prestige and wonderful medical program. If you want to succeed in life and exit with a job or internship this is the school to go. It is a very diverse campus.

Ramon from Inglewood, CA

07/22/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

UCLA is a safe campus. You feel very welcomed here and whatever time it may be, day or night, UCLA has various resources that always work endlessly to keep students safe whether they're in their dorms or coming back from a midnight jog. UCLA is very protective of it's students and the dedication that continuously give to their safety resources such as security guards, lights, emergency call centers, late night escorts is great because they certainly show that they care for their students' safety.

Great for these types of students

UCLA is great for all types of students. Reserved, energetic, social, interactive, sporty, extremely competitive, academically dedicated, etc. UCLA is a school where students from all parts of the world, from different backgrounds, and various personalities can all find their comfort zone in this university and slowly overtime learn to call this place home and build a system of connections and relationships with the people on campus.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Some unusual traditions at UCLA would have to be the traditions that occur during the week that our football team goes up against USC. The school holds rallies throughout the week and there is a gigantic tower built of USC signs that are burnt (with the watch and approval of campus fire department) and there is just a gigantic flaming tower that looks absolutely amazing as the UCLA band plays the fight song in the back and the students are just radiating this pride and excitement of being a UCLA bruin.

Bang for the buck

UCLA is absolutely worth every penny. The academics here are amazing and there are always campus resources that are given to you so that you may succeed in all academic fields whether they're ones that you may favor like I really love history, but I got great assistance in fields of study like philosophy and climatology. The dorms are a great experience as well that certainly beat having to compute practically everyday. There are libraries throughout the campus where you can go into to have a nice cup of coffee with friends, or read a book from the infinite amount of resources and collections that are on campus. Everything at UCLA from the small things like the beautiful campus to the dining experience is certainly worth the money and any person that is looking for a place to call home, a place to succeed academically, and that one place where they will build their character to one that will succeed and obtain a prosperous future while having an unforgettable college experience will find that UCLA is certainly worth every penny because in the end it's the value and quality of the academic and social experience that matter the most.

What to do for fun

There are a lot of things that you can for fun on campus. There are always recreational sports if you ever wanted to just be on a team for fun, floor teams which are composed of people who live in your dorm and on your floor level where you compete with other dorm students on campus. You can always do small things such as go out to open grass by the Students Activity Center and just play football, or throw a frisbee with your friends. And if you like to get up and active, you can always go out for a morning, afternoon or late night jog with friends and just see the beautiful campus. Also, since UCLA is in the heart of Westwood, you have access to so many things within Westwood such as shopping gallerias, restaurants such as Fat Sal's, In-N-Out, Five Guys, California Pizza Kitchen, and there are about 3 movie theaters that you and your friends can always go to as well. The life within UCLA is always burning on strong and never seems to deteriorate. It's very easy to stay entertained at this university, but remember to always go out and see the world with friends.

Food and Dining

The food at UCLA is great. You have a variety of things from Mexican food such as burritos, tacos, and enchiladas to Asian food. It seems as if there's an endless amount of food options at UCLA. If you want Ice Cream there's gelato, you can have Italian sandwiches, a coffee or smoothie for those late nights or in an early rush for class. And for healthier lifestyles there is also vegan and vegetarian foods such as salads. The only issue that I have of the UCLA food is that there's seems to be a lack of healthy foods on campus. You aren't really offered a lot of fruits and vegetables to eat from, your choices are very limited and if your as picky and a health freak like me, you grow tired of the limited vegetarian options fast. UCLA certainly does have great tasting food -- but then again everything that tastes great isn't always the greatest for your body.

Dorm Life

The dorm life at UCLA is absolutely great. You get to meet tons of people from all over the world. For example I met people from Washington, Northern California, Boston and other places that I've never been to. The people in the dorms are awesome and not only are dedicated students like yourself but they're always a good escape from the stressful and demanding academic life at UCLA. You get to spend endless hours and nights with people in dorms doing simple things such as watching tv, playing video games, and studying that seem to be so vital to the college life. While not all people live in the dorms, the housing life at UCLA is truly amazing and something every incoming student should experience

Academic Rigor

UCLA is one of the most prestigious universities in the world and the academics certainly reflect that prestige. You'll find yourself challenged at times with assignments that ask you for deductive reasoning, careful analysis, observation, and experimentation. You have to go out of your way to succeed in your academics here because this university is certainly not a place where you can get by with writing last minute essays or not studying for midterms and finals. The professors and TA's have high expectations when your a student here, but despite their expectations they always offer you the resources and assistance you need to succeed here. You are never alone in this school. Make the most of campus resources such as writing centers, study hours, tutoring, and things of that nature because the academic life at UCLA certainly is a rigorous one that demands a lot out of you.

Tips for prospective students

Remember that your human. Some people come into college with the focus of just being a student, but college is a time and place in your life where your supposed to breakout of your shell and develop your character- socially and academically. Never forget to enjoy the experience and present yourself to the world because the people at UCLA not only share the same energy and passion for learning as you do, but they're generally amazing people that can become long lasting friends.

In three sentences

UCLA is beyond an amazing school. The minute that you step on this campus you can immediately feel the life and success of this school and the students around you radiating powerfully. Although college is often an intimidating chapter within our lives, UCLA is certainly the place to find your home, comfort, and niche.

Tamara from City Of Industry, CA

07/25/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

I have been day dreaming about wind surfing. Also, I plan to expand my student health care organization. Aside from those things, I will utilize the recreational facilities like pools, tennis courts, and aerobic classes.

Food and Dining

I have sampled the cuisine and it was better than Soup Plantation. I enjoy soup, salad, pastas and the occasional pastry. I am confident that I will be satisfied with the brain food at UCLA.

Dorm Life

I am excited to live on campus. I plan to partake in as many outdoor activities as time will allow and in the process make new and lasting friendships. Time away from my loving family will be hard, but it's all I can do to create for myself something I can give back to them.

Academic Rigor

I have yet to experience the level of difficulty or challenge offered by the university. I am preparing for a grueling first quarter, brushing up on past subjects and researching the new. I expect no less than the very best education from a brilliant research institution.

Tips for prospective students

UCLA hosts applications and admissions with a true sense of recognition , appreciation and achievement. Do not be discouraged by the fear that you will not be good enough to achieve your goals. Use your personal statement as a platform from which to introduce yourself to the university and do undergraduate research.

In three sentences

UCLA is a gorgeous tribute to the academic treasures our country has to offer. The stunning landscape, prestigious faculty, and well rounded excellence in all major studies makes UCLA an oasis for the knowledge thirsty scholar. UCLA is a university standard that I believe in.

T.B. from Los Angeles, CA

UCLA is a very safe campus and they hold student safety to the upmost.

Greek Life

I am not a part of the Greek life at UCLA but there is a strong and positive presence of the Greek system with many fraternities and sororities from social to business and academic

Clubs and Activities

There are numerous clubs and activities (more than I could even count) including the Wooden athletic center where a number of physical activities and martial arts (including Muay Thai, my favorite) as well as club sports and a club or activity for any interested in community service, social and political issues, cultural clubs and many more.

Great for these types of students

Students who like city life, the beach, amazing weather, easy going and friendly people and an academically strong university.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

You will learn all of the UCLA traditions during your orientation including the world known 8 Clap!

Bang for the buck

It is LA so things do tend to be a little more expensive, but if you know how to shop around or find good deals online then you'll be set!

What to do for fun

You are in LA! There is loads of things to do and many are free! there are a number of museums near by and you're only a short bus ride or drive away from the beach, the sunset strip or Hollywood!

Food and Dining

UCLA is known for some of the best dining halls in the country. Not to mention there are 4 main dining halls that each house a different style of food from around the world and also quick eateries in case you're in a hurry or want something a little sweet like gelato or tiramisu from cafe 1919

Dorm Life

I had a great dorm experience! If you live in the halls, your floors and buildings are alot more social and you are quick to meet a lot of people.

Academic Rigor

Most classes are challenging in the sense that they provoke thought and help shape you into individuals that jobs are looking for.

Tips for prospective students

I strongly suggest that you visit the beautiful and get a chance to talk to not only the counselors about applying and any information you want to know, but any of the present or past students.

In three sentences

UCLA is the definition of a school spirited college. Its academic programs challenge and bring out the best in its students. Life long memories, friends, and experiences are created here.

It's really what you make it and how your particular floor is. Some people get really close with their floor/buildingmates, but others don't.

Academic Rigor

It really depends on your major and everything, but I feel like everything is very do-able. You just have to want it and be willing to work a little.

Tips for prospective students

Be outgoing and get involved in activities. Don't be afraid to go to events and ask about different organizations. That is THE best advice ever. Get involved in everything and then choose what you love and want to commit to. It makes all the difference in the world.

In three sentences

UCLA is a great well-rounded school. Love that it's a school all its students really take pride in. Definitely visit and get a feel for the campus, it really expresses the culture.

Katelyn from Huntington Beach, CA

I am not too sure about Greek life except that sororities are on one side of the campus and fraternities are on the other.

Clubs and Activities

So many amazing opportunities to join what you love to do, or are interested in.

Great for these types of students

ALL!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Inverted fountain. Jan's Steps. Eight-count clap.

Bang for the buck

UCLA is kind of expensive when it comes to Bear Wear or tuition. But in the end, if you get a degree from UCLA, you paid for the amazing opportunities it will bring in when you put it on your resume.

What to do for fun

There is so much to do on this campus, and the perks of being a UCLA student are awesome. Free Kayaking at Marina del Ray! Do it!

Food and Dining

All the food is delicious! BruinCard swipes at any food location. It is the best!

Dorm Life

They dorms are awesome! The only thing that stinks is there are a lot of triple occupancy because of how many students attend.

Academic Rigor

It's as competitive as they say, but if you are accepted to become a member of the Bruin family, you are definitely meant to be there. Even if you aren't accepted, if it's your first choice, try again!

Tips for prospective students

Whatever choices your make in life, or whatever project you find yourself working on, ask yourself, Is that the best you can do? Not because whatever you created isn't good, but because there is always room for improvement. Give it your all.

In three sentences

UCLA is very diversified. It is a clean, and friendly campus. Go Bruins!

Ana from Arleta, CA

08/04/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Clubs and Activities

A tip I tell every student is get involved. There are so many clubs on campus that you are bound to find the one, or ones perfect for you. If its ethnic organizations, sports clubs, volunteer groups, or student government. They are all excellent ways to get to know people and get more of a feel of UCLA.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

UCLA has an inverted fountain where it's a tradition to touch only when you go for orientation as it becomes your baptize and can't be touched until you graduate or you will have bad luck and stay for another quarter. Some say it is just a silly tradition but many students believe it, as do I.

What to do for fun

UCLA is located in a great part of the city. Right outside is Westwood where their are a bunch of restaurants, especially sushi places. There is also 3 movie theaters, and one of them is where many movies have their premiers so you can go see the stars. Santa Monica beach and 3rd street promenade are also just a bus ride away.

Food and Dining

The dorm food is #1 from any UC, for a reason. There are 3 dinning halls that each offer the basic like burger and hotdog as well as daily specials. There are also 3 places where you can get food to go and is very convenient if you are in a hurry. The selection is great and you won't get bored of the food if you mix it up everyday.

Dorm Life

I lived in Hedrick Summit my first year, and it was seriously awesome. I totally recommend that if you can afford it definitely try the dorms. Your neighbors become your friends and you end up having a good time any time of the day.

Academic Rigor

Classes aren't actually too hard if you enjoy the subject. Professors keep things simple or at least offer you the resources to understand the subject. TA's are also very helpful.

Tips for prospective students

I would recommend for students to visit the campus. You can't decide what you want until you visit and imagine yourself there. Visiting it will give you a sense of what attending school there will be like and you will be able to see of the environment is of your liking. Also, don't be shy to ask any students you see on campus questions, everyone is very friendly and you can get an insight on anything.

In three sentences

UCLA is a great school and I feel so lucky and privileged to attend. The weather is always so perfect and everyone always seems so friendly. The campus is beautiful at any time of day and the classes are welcoming with awesome professors and TA's.

Nikkita from Winnetka, CA

08/06/2012

Reviewer is A past student here.

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Campus Safety

UCLA was quite a safe place. Near the campus hospital was the UCPD. They monitor the entire campus and keep the students safe. Whenever there was a bad occurrence on campus, students would receive a text message from Bruin Alert. Bruin Alert was a system that was provided for the students to inform them of a hazardous situation on campus and they should be very careful. The campus was also quite well-lit. Students did not have to be concerned returning to their dorm rooms in the dark.

Clubs and Activities

UCLA had several clubs on campus. Many clubs were always out on Bruin walk to bring in newcomers. I remember that during the first week, most of the clubs would stand between Royce and Powell Library and promote. It almost looked like a zoo.

Great for these types of students

Students who did not have a computer or could not print out required material, there was Powell Library. On the first floor to the left, Powell Library had a room full of computers. Students could use these computers to complete their homework, essays, etc. Near these computers were printers that students used to print out pages. For students seeking out jobs, they have an opportunity to work on campus. On the second floor of Kerkhoff Hall was the Human Resources office where students could find jobs on campus and apply. They could also apply for jobs on-line through the ASUCLA website. Students who wanted to go and study abroad had the option to so by the UC Education Abroad Program. The International Education Office was located at Murphy Hall at B300. It was a little confusing to get there as I had to go outside of Murphy Hall and travel down some steps just to get to the office.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Many UCLA alumni mentioned that there was a bridge on campus. Of course, many who had been to UCLA had never seen a bridge. Apparently, years ago after some construction, the bridge is now currently underground. Weird, right?

Bang for the buck

UCLA is an expensive school. Students are strongly encouraged to apply for financial aid (FAFSA). The financial aid office located at Murphy Hall assists students the best they can to help them pay for tuition. If students wish to apply for scholarships, they should head for Covel Commons and seek out the scholarship office. The counselors there will provide students with scholarship information. They even help write essays that students need to complete for their scholarships.

What to do for fun

There were several things to do at UCLA. First of all, the university neighbored Westwood. If someone wanted to shop, eat, or go to the movies, then Westwood was the place to do it. There were many shopping boutiques such as Urban Outfitters. There were also many restaurants like California Pizza Kitchen and Yamato. Of course, for most college students who have a need for coffee, there was also a Starbucks and a Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (I prefer Starbucks). If someone wanted to shop for groceries, there was also a Ralph's in the area. There were at least three movies theaters in Westwood that students can go to and catch their favorite flick (I sat through Ninja Assassin twice). On campus, there was the Recreational Center. If one wishes to work out and stay in shape, students would go there first. Aside from the exercise equipment that students could use, there was also instructional courses that students can participate in. There was martial arts, swimming, gymnastics, basketball, rock-climbing, etc. For those who like to swim, there were plenty of swimming pools on campus. There were many at Sunset Recreational Center near the campus dorms, another few at the Student Activities Center, and another one at Glorya Kaufman Hall (across the Student Activities Center). At Ackerman Union, there was an arcade at A-level. Next to the arcade, meanwhile, was Game On! For those who love video games, and like to play with consoles like PS3, Wii, Xbox, and PC, then head on over there and check it out. I heard that some of the students go there after midterms to relief stress.

Food and Dining

There were several dining halls around the campus residence. There was Covell Commons (my favorite), Hedrick, Rieber, Bruin Cafe, Cafe 1919, De Neve, and Rendevous. All of the dining halls were right next to the dorms. Before students arrive on campus, they would have to select a meal plan. I recall that there were various options (I had the smaller plan because I never ate that much). Once this was done, students were able to enter the dining halls with a swipe of their bruincards. The dining halls functioned like a buffet. Students were able to select the foods they wanted, and then go have seconds. Next, for those who preferred healthier food choices, the dining halls had several dishes for students to choose from. This included vegetarian options. Several people, including myself, sighed with relief when we could have spaghetti without the meatballs (yuck). If students did not have time to hang out at the dining halls with their friends because they have to study, or they could go in and have breakfast, there was Bruin Cafe, Cafe 1919, and Rendevous. With just a swipe of the bruincard, students could take their meals to go. For some students, this was a relief because many of them had tough schedules. Going to class was highly imperative.

Dorm Life

Dorm life was fun. I was residing at Rieber Terrace that neighbored Hedrick, Rieber Vista, and Rieber. There was also De Neve, Sproul, Sunset Vista, and more. As of Fall 2012, additional halls will be opened. I recall that the new building stood between De Neve and Sproul Hall. When applying for housing, students answer a series of personality questions. This was necessary, so the computer system could narrow down which students were compatible with other students. Luckily, I had very cool room mates. On each floor of the dorms, there were Residential Assistants who helped or answered questions for students, regarding campus life and more. The RA's that lived on my floor at the time were very outgoing and made dorm life extra fun with movies, games, and pizza. Every now and then, I thought that there was a party outside while finishing my homework. The dorm rooms were relatively small, which was expected. I lived in a Triple, so the room looked much smaller. However, my room mates and I decorated the entire place, so it felt more like home, rather than a small-cramped-up-room. If students did not like their housing choice, the Housing Services located at Sproul Hall, would help students seek out other housing options, such as off-campus housing. There are many apartments next to the campus. The cost for the apartments, last I checked, vary.

Academic Rigor

During my first year at UCLA, I was highly concerned because I heard that the university ran under a quarter system. A quarter system consisted of ten weeks worth of study as opposed to the semester system, which was fifteen weeks worth. Around the fourth or fifth week of classes, I had midterms. In spite of my concerns, however, I actually survived. The professors at UCLA, although they seemed scary at first, were highly informative. They provided excellent lectures. If students were confused about anything, they were an email away. They also were around during their office hours. Aside from the professors, there were also teaching assistants who students would normally see during discussion. The discussion sections were the part of the course where the teaching assistants would go over the material and prepare students for the midterm or finals. Initially, most students, including myself, did not think that the discussion sections were that important because we would receive information from lecture. But that wasn't the case, for matters that were discussed during those periods of time often dealt with other reading material which was never mentioned at lecture. I was fortunate to have been at discussion, because I remembered that five or six questions on the midterm were actually discussed during section. If I hadn't gone, then I probably would not have received that 'A.'

Tips for prospective students

For prospective students, either coming in as freshmen or transfers, be sure to maintain a high grade-point-average. It is imperative that the grade-point-average is at least a 3.4 or higher. The situation often varies with transfer students (I got in with a 3.2). Subsequently, UCLA usually selects students who not only study, but also get involved in extracurricular activities, such as clubs or sports. Those who are involved in a sport, meanwhile, would find that UCLA houses all kinds or sports. Moreover, there are opportunities to compete. And UCLA has a long history winning NCAA championships.

In three sentences

If one is academically driven and hell-bent on pursuing their future career goals, then UCLA is the best university to go. It is highly competitive as many prospective students apply for admissions; over 95,000 applicants applied for Fall 2012. Additionally, it is a safe environment.

Laura from Los Angeles, CA

It's a pretty safe campus, if you are late night studying at a friends dorm you can have an excort take you back.

Clubs and Activities

UCLA has a variety of clubs you can join. It's nice to know that most of the clubs are meant to give back to the community.

Great for these types of students

This school is for students who like challenges, smart, competitive, motivated, etc..

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The rivalry between USC and UCLA. Also, there's a dance marathon where you have to dance for 26 hours; you help pediatric AIDS research.

Bang for the buck

It's really an amazing school! The classes are rigorous, but there's a lot of programs that are willing to help you.

What to do for fun

Go out to Westwood and visit the little shops. Also, going out to the campus and watch the sunset.

Food and Dining

The food is the best part, it's simply delicious! They always have a variety of dishes to choose from.

Dorm Life

People are respectful, and there's a lot of students that spend their time doing homework.

Academic Rigor

Professors have a lot of knowledge, and it's your responsibility to consume it.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be intimidated because of the class size; it's important to ask questions. Take your classes serious, because it's hard to get back up. It's a very competitive school, but if you are dedicated you'll make it!

In three sentences

University of California Los Angeles is an amazing school, even though the size you are able to interact with the professor and exchange ideas. It's a beautiful campus; the students are really nice. You experience what college is really about!

Estefany from Los Angeles, CA

I was not apart of but they seem to be support groups and not just party groups.

Clubs and Activities

Pleanty of options.

Great for these types of students

Students who care about our world and are not just into money are meant to be Bruins.

Bang for the buck

Scholarships offered on campus.

What to do for fun

Clubs!! Every single club that comes to mind we have.

Food and Dining

The dinning halls cannot get any better. Delicious with pleanty of options throughout the year.

Dorm Life

Very social that helps support and motivate one another. Highly recommend it to fully take advantage of the college experience.

Academic Rigor

It is pretty rigourous but dedication and devotion is all it takes. Nothing is imposible ! Si se puede!

Tips for prospective students

Apply to FSP as early as possible. The program takes you through orientation, helps you enroll into classes, as well as helps guide you through UCLA. In the summer it is not as packed with students allowing freshman to get to know the campus and feel comfortable before fall quarter.

In three sentences

UCLA is a supportive learning environment that offers many resources to help the individuals. I have been apart of the Freshman Summer Program here on campus through the AAP program and it has really helped me with my transition from high school to University. UCLA is a campus filled with people that have the same desire to help out others and is simply amazing.

Tenny from San Luis Obispo, CA

There are many theaters (both film and live performances), places to hike, museums (such as the Getty Museum, the Hammer Museum, the Los Angeles Museum of Modern Art), etc.

Food and Dining

UCLA has many different places for food and dining all with very good dietary choices, whether you're a meat-lover, vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. UCLA also offers many fair trade products, which is a plus. In Westwood, about 10 minutes from UCLA, there are delicious places (both ethnic or otherwise) to dine.

Dorm Life

As a transfer student, I didn't experience the dorm life, however from what I hear it was extremely enjoyable.

Academic Rigor

The academia is rigorous, but one is very capable of excelling if one works hard and devotes a lot of time in the class.

In three sentences

UCLA offers extremely valuable teaching in every field from some of the best professors in the country. The campus is beautiful and stimulating. The curriculum is of the highest caliber.

Marie from Los ANgeles, CA

Study hard and keep your chin up! You'll be faced with challenges but there is nothing that you can't overcome

In three sentences

I love UCLA because of it's diversity among students and faculty. But with such amazing and world renowned professors, the learning environment is stressful and challenges all students. Although the school is challenging, I'm so happy to be going to such an amazing school with so many opportunities for growth.

Danielle from Antioch, CA

I have never felt like I was ever in danger on this campus. The campus police are very available and present, but are rarely needed. Safety is no issue at all.

Greek Life

Greek life is large enough that it has a noticeable presence on campus, yet small enough that you would not be missing out on anything at all if you were not interested in participating it. Whether or not the greek life is for you, it will definitely satisfy your needs.

Clubs and Activities

The clubs and activities are endless. From football games, to movie premiers, to dance clubs, to culture clubs, to business clubs, to quidditch teams, to intramural sports, to the John Wooden gym, to sororities and fraternities--there are endless possibilities of clubs and activities at UCLA. Guaranteed, you will find the club you are interested in participating in, and even unexpectedly come across ones you did not plan on joining. It is quite easy to start a new club as well, if it so happens that it does not already exist.

Great for these types of students

Diligent students who are willing to work and eager to learn, yet who like to have fun and be amongst a diversity of people that have a lot to say and share.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's always film crews and celebrities all over this campus, since the campus is such a popular and beautiful location to film! I believe this normality is unique to UCLA.

Bang for the buck

You definitely need to work for what you earn at this school, grade-wise. There's no scraping by or flying under the radar, but developing a good work-ethic is never a bad trait to learn for life.

What to do for fun

The campus is a mere 10 minute drive from the beach, 30 minutes from the Malibu mountains, right smack in the middle of Westwood, hour away from Disneyland, and 20 minutes away from Hollywood. I mean, who could EVER run out of fun things to do with all those options?!

Food and Dining

The food is even better than home-made food. The options are so abundant so that you never get sick of it. From pizza, to ice cream, to chinese food, to sushi, to burgers--you'll never run out of options.

Dorm Life

All the dorms seem so new that they could have been built last year. The facilities are clean, spacious, and useful. The dorm gyms are great for exercise, the recreational rooms with air hockey, pool tables, and table tennis is an awesome place to wind down and hang out with friends, but most importantly, the lounges on each floor are a necessity for studying. Also, events like puppy-petting, mini-concerts, and movie viewing are always happening in case you get bored or tired of studying! I love the dorm life!

Academic Rigor

The eagerness and diligence of the students at UCLA is both inspiring and encouraging. There is so much knowledge and wisdom among the exceptional students at UCLA, which only makes you want to always be your best.

Tips for prospective students

Apply yourself to extracurricular activities, whether it be a dance team, homecoming council, sorority/fraternity, or anything of those sorts. UCLA has unlimited opportunity for involvement, through which you can meet other students from an assortment of different backgrounds, who will shape your college experience in ways you cannot even imagine.

In three sentences

UCLA not only provides a top-notch quality education, where all your peers are totally invested in learning and eager to participate. It is a diverse environment in which young adults from all over the world can come together to share their exceptional talents, minds, and cultures. UCLA sets a new standard for the word diversity by pushing the boundaries of learning past the classroom, and into the real world.

Jeff from LOS ANGELES, CA

There is a lot to do, keep in touch with other student, zero week has a lot of events for new students and there are clubs always vying for your attention on Bruin walk.

Food and Dining

UCLA has some of the best dining facilities in the nation. Come prepared at the dining halls with an empty appetite and enjoy.

Dorm Life

Dorm Life is a great experience to meeting new and different people. Be ready to be open minded and affable to different social setting and sharing.

Academic Rigor

While the workload can be tough, there is always TA's and other students that can help you manage your workload.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you visit the Student Activity Center, which has lots of information about organizations students can benefit from. Talk with other students and get involved in clubs to further outreach in your UCLA community.

In three sentences

UCLA has great diversity and a multitude of student clubs one can join. It is a lush and vast campus. UCLA students have a lot of school pride and it creates a great atmosphere.

Jordan from Valencia, CA

08/28/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

West LA is known to be a pretty upscale neighborhood. I have never once felt unsafe on my campus. We have Bel-air in our backyard, West Hollywood and Santa Monica are our neighbors, and Culver City is across the street. All very safe places.

Greek Life

Wonderful

Clubs and Activities

Hundreds and hundreds of clubs and activities. Literally everything and anything you could think of, there's probably a club for it.

Great for these types of students

There's something for everyone.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Underground tunnel system that just begs to be explored by anyone adventurous and rebellious enough to trespass.

Bang for the buck

Being a UC means that tuition is less expensive for California residents, that being said, our financial aid system could use more funding.

The school itself has some very great food. Everything from the dorm cafeterias to the student union on campus is delicious. Very high quality food.

Dorm Life

Some of the best experiences of my life.

Academic Rigor

This is one of the most academically intense colleges to go to in the world. Quarter system is fast paced, and the amount of information we are expected to absorb in that short period of time still baffles me.

Tips for prospective students

Get as involved as you can in everything that interests you, just don't take on more than you can handle. Know your limits. Stay focused on your academics.

In three sentences

Large school with a close-knit, community feel. Excels in academics and athletics. Great location in the heart of West L.A.

Ashley from Pomona, CA

There is a police department on campus and officers around everywhere so i feel that the campus is very safe. However, i could do without the ocassional people who come ask me for change for the bus.

Greek Life

I dont know what that is.

Clubs and Activities

I didnt find the right club for me to join yet.

Great for these types of students

Fun, out-going, open-minded, optimistic, wealthy.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Young Research Library is a great place to do extensive research and it is a quiet place to sleep.

Bang for the buck

The school is way to expensive. I like the education in all but i really dont like taking out loans to pay for school. I wish they would have given me more money for support.

What to do for fun

I lived off campus so i mainly went home. But there are many activities and clubs to join if you are interested in that kind of things. The gym is great too.

Food and Dining

Since i did not dorm, i did not dine in the school.

Dorm Life

I didnt dorm because it was way too expensive.

Tips for prospective students

If you are looking for a fun atmosphere where studying is not your main concern then this school is for you. Also, if you would like a wide range of knowledge on various subjects, then UCLA offers that.

In three sentences

This school is very expensive. The professors are very passionate about their work, but the atmosphere is not worth the expenses.

Nerris from Oxnard, CA

I've never had a problem walking through campus or Westwood by myself.

Greek Life

Not involved, but many of my friends are and love it!

Clubs and Activities

I'm personally involved in: -The Film and Photography Society, where we learn how to make independent films and use cameras. -HOOLIGAN Theatre Company, where we put together student produced plays and musicals.

Great for these types of students

-Ambitious -Elite -Hardworking -Good at many things

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

-Diddy Riese. That's all I'm going to say.

Bang for the buck

-It's the all-around building experience: Learning how to build character, expand your crafts and creativity, and learn academics.

What to do for fun

Me personally: -Go to the De Neve Rec room to play ping pong or air hockey or pool. There's also a piano there, so if I ever want to practice or jam with friends or even meet fellow musicians (I've made so many new friends at that piano), I can go there 24/7. -Westwood Village has all kinds of shops, restaurants, and there's a famous person and movie premiere there at least three times a week. -Make short films with friends. -See a free show at the Hammer museum or Royce Hall.

Food and Dining

-Outstanding. Absolutely outstanding. Just to give you an idea: There are four all-you-can-eat buffets on the hill that are open every day, as well as Italian, Mexican, and Asian themed restaurants. The best part? You can get entrees from each restaurant with your meal plan for free!

Dorm Life

-Live in the dorms, for at least one year. Take my word for it. Not only does UCLA rank #1 in best dorm food, but the facilities you get for free are better than the best 5 star hotels. Even better, the best way to make new friends is through living in the halls or plazas (suites not so much).

Academic Rigor

-It's challenging, yes, but the information you'll learn is unbelievably interesting. Do your work when it's assigned, and for the love of God, DO NOT PROCRASTINATE. -Start off with a 3 course load, then try 4 courses if the 4th one is an elective or a GE.

Tips for prospective students

-Don't underestimate how fast the quarter system goes: you're learning everything 1.5 times faster than semester system schools, and it's a fantastic mix insanity and amazingness. -Also, if you want an A, go to lectures, discussions, your professor's office hours, and your TA's office hours. The teachers there are awesome: sometimes I'll be watching the Discovery or Science channel, and I'll see them on there! Get to know them; they'll teach you a lot. -Meet everyone and do everything. You're going to be surrounded by the most elite students from every part of the world. Meet them all. I can't stress this enough: MEET. THEM. ALL. Hear their stories, learn their outlooks on life, and learn about their part of the world. -That being said, join clubs and groups immediately. If you think you have an interest in a group, join it. If you think you have absolutely no interest in the group, join it! Learn something new.

In three sentences

A place that will teach you how to tell your story in your own unique way. The only place I know that is best at everything: classes, extracurricular opportunities, research, arts and sciences, student diversity, professors, and the spectacular surrounding city called Westwood. The one place that can fit the entire world into a college campus.

Pantip from Lancaster, CA

09/05/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

always warning if anything dangerous happen has text massage warning has specific number to call the police there is campus police and free escort at night! All the dorms are secure with securities at the entrance

Greek Life

Amazing frats and sororities There's frat and sororities right near to school

Clubs and Activities

From Politics to pre med, pre law dance teams to cultural for every ethnic group music groups sports like quidditch every clubs in the book possible!

Great for these types of students

Liberal higher education research social

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

North campus famous garden! (most romantic garden of LA Fowler museum on campus! Undies run during final week (students run around campus in underwear!) ice blocking down the jans steps hill! Breathtaking Royce hall! infamous secret (illegal) tunneling and more!

Fatemah from Torrance, CA

09/07/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

While the campus is mostly safe, there have been a few robberies near the apartments that many students live in. Everything seems okay during the daytime, but make sure you have a buddy to walk with after the sun sets. Luckily for Bruins, there are evening van escorts and walking escorts if you want to get to your apartment safely. Once, after a mock trial practice (which ended at 11:30 PM), I felt unsafe walking to my car. So I called the walking escort service, and a police officer walked me to my car.

Greek Life

Living with a fraternity or a sorority can save you a ton of money! Usually, it costs about $12,000 a year to live in a dorm. Living at a fraternity or a sorority can save you as much as $8,000 a year.

Clubs and Activities

There is a club here for every kind of student, literally! There are over 800 clubs at UCLA. The John Wooden Center is one of my favorite places on campus. There are so many fun classes to take. Last quarter, my friend took Bollywood dance there, while another joined the school's Quidditch team. (Yes, UCLA has a Quidditch team, and they play competitively.)

Great for these types of students

UCLA is great for students who want to work hard. There are many things to excel at here. Whether you want to organize a rally for a political issue, or you want to assist your professors in their research, or you want to score well on your next exam, you have to work pretty hard to get what you want. There is always another club to join, another rally to attend, another exam to take, another class to squeeze into your schedule. You have to be able to focus your time wisely and push yourself.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Before football games, UCLA and USC vandalize the other's school mascot. In the fall, a week before the games, a small wood shack is built around the big bronze Bruin bear. The shack says things like, be right back, Bruins! and the bear is hibernating. There's an inverted fountain deep in south campus. I personally think it looks more like a drain. If viewed from a certain angle, it looks like a toilet being flushed.

Bang for the buck

Apply for scholarships! UCLA has a Scholarship Center in Covel. It's a great way to fund your college experience. UCLA is a much better option for California students, since they have a reduced tuition. Besides tuition, room and board is a big expense for most students. Make sure to invest your money wisely. Do you get your money's worth going to UCLA? Absolutely. The facilities there are amazing. The gym is fantastic. The teachers genuinely care about their students, especially those that they can recognize... (go to office hours!) Living in a dorm might be financially viable for some students, but I believe it is much smarter to find a group of people to share an apartment with. It's much easier than it sounds. If you affiliate yourself with a particular religious or ethnic group represented at UCLA, find them on facebook. Almost every student group has some kind of apartment hunting buddy system. You'll probably have more in common with them than you would with your dorm mates.

What to do for fun

Join a club! The best thing to do at UCLA is make friends. Joining a club is a great way to find people that share the same passions as you. Going down into Westwood is also a lot of fun, especially if you have a sweet tooth. Diddy Riese and The Chocolate Factory have plenty of loyal Bruin customers. Grab some friends, and go explore! Another great way to have fun is to geek out with your professors. If you have a really interesting class, go visit your professor in their office hours. They always have really interesting stories to share.

Food and Dining

The food at UCLA is great! In fact, it's a bit too great. You might find yourself gaining more than you bargain for eating at the dorms. Remember to make healthy choices, or try to cook on your own. My commute to UCLA was pretty long, and in the hotter days, my food would spoil, so it was nice when some of my dorm friends offered to swipe me in. De Neve is my favorite place to eat. But since it's far from classes, eating at the bomb shelter (if you're in the southern part of campus) or at Northern Lights (if you're in the northern part of campus) is an excellent experience as well.

Dorm Life

I commuted all throughout college, so I can't honestly say what the dorm life is like. However, the food at the dorms is the best! They have a wide variety of options of food. There are many vegan and vegetarian options as well. I stayed at my friends' dorms some days when we wanted to have study parties. The dorms provide a really tight-knit community for you to fall back on, but living in an apartment close to school is fine too.

Academic Rigor

The difficulty of your classes depends completely on the class you're taking. Science and math classes are pretty hard at UCLA. However, there are a lot of tutoring options available. Make sure you ask your professors for help, and if they don't have office hours that match your schedule, then make sure to visit the various math/science/writing tutoring centers at UCLA! In my experience, the social science classes at UCLA are easy ONLY if you attend the lectures. Since so much of the exam is on is based on what is covered in lecture, it is really important to attend all classes. Make sure to check Bruinwalk before signing up for any class. It shows grade break-downs for every class, and has student reviews for almost every professor.

Tips for prospective students

It's a big school, so don't get carried away exploring all the fun things you can do. Focus on your studies, because socializing can wait! The dorm food is delicious, and nearly everyone gains twenty pounds in the first year. Learn to choose your food wisely. It's really important to establish a relationship with professors, and try to help them with their research. Since UCLA is a research school, helping your professors will earn you the best recommendation letters! If you can show your professors that you've been paying attention, then they'll really love you. That's why it's so important not to miss classes! Also, printing is free at the Student Activities Center.

In three sentences

UCLA is an excellent school, especially for those interested in Life Sciences. It is quite challenging to keep grades up, but it is not impossible. The people there are very nice and making friends is easy, especially if you join one of the 800 student clubs there!

Bookworm123

The food is wonderful here; everyone who comes from another UC, says that our food is spectacular! You don't want to miss it!

Dorm Life

Depending on who your roommates are, you might have the best or the worst time of your life. If you find yourself in certain sticky situations, always remember that your RA is there to help! Most of the time, rooming with new people is a great opportunity to step outside of your comfort zone and meet new friends!

Academic Rigor

There are a variety of classes offered, all of which are of varying difficulty. In addition, there are also freshmen GE clusters, which may/may not be suited towards your needs.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure to keep up your good grades, even during senior year of high school!

In three sentences

UCLA is a giant mix of social groups of all types, people of all different backgrounds, and a bundle of interesting courses. The people here are very outgoing and nice; anyone can feel at home here!

Aliysa from Decatur, GA

Even though our campus is open, the campus security really knows how to stay on the job and alert us if there is any danger. We even get text messages.

Greek Life

Greek life plays a huge role in student activities. It's a great way for students to have a special bond with other people connected to them. We have a lot of sororities and fraternities on campus.

Clubs and Activities

We have any student group you can possibly think of (and if we don't you can form it yourself), from a cappella to community service to outdoor groups. You will definitely find a group that you belong to.

Great for these types of students

I think UCLA is great for any student, whether you love leadership or feel more comfortable behind the scenes.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

When you get a tour of UCLA the guides will tell you random wacky facts about certain places around campus. They make it a game at the end for you to guess if what they said was true or false. It's really fun!

This is what sets UCLA apart from other schools. There are so many opportunities to get out and have fun. Surrounding the school is Westwood, which is one of the premier spots in Southern California. There are many restaurants along with cute boutiques for casual shopping. It's a great area to go if you want to get off campus for a bit.

Food and Dining

We have many options to choose from when it comes to food (4 dining halls, 3 campus restaurants that accept swipes). The only thing I struggled to find was a lot of the healthier options. I wanted other healthy foods besides salad all the time.

Dorm Life

Everyone on my floor last year was like one big family. We did activities together, and had meetings every week.

Academic Rigor

Academic classes require a lot from the student and should be taken seriously. There is a lot of information. If you study, you will do well.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you have a stellar community service record. That's is one of the things that really stands out on the application.

In three sentences

Attending UCLA has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. The experience has enabled me to grow as a person and I feel like the instruction I get is unlike that of any other school. The possibilities really are endless here.

Elyla

09/19/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Bang for the buck

Everyone says to live south of Wilshire. A friend of mine lives close to UCLA pays $950/month to share a two-bedroom apartment. I live with a roommate a bit farther away, ~50 minutes bus, in a guesthouse and I pay $750/month (that includes all the utilities). The farther you are from the school, the lower the rent, the quieter it can get. It just depends on personal preferences.

What to do for fun

Many stores, cafes, restaurants close to UCLA. Riding the bus to Santa Monica and relax at the beach.

Food and Dining

Very good food (at least during orientation and transfer day). Sometimes it's too good that one plate isn't enough because you can eat all you want.

Dorm Life

I decided not to live in dorms because they are just too small. I had an opportunity to sleep in a dorm room during a transfer day at UCLA and I realized that I like bigger space and more privacy. Oh yes, and I almost forgot to mention the HUGE hill that is required to get up the the dorms. After a long and tiring day, I would not have the energy to climb up there.

Academic Rigor

I have yet to take a class (school starts next week), but I heard that the preparation class for proofs this summer had six students; three dropped, and one failed and two passed, or something like that.

Tips for prospective students

A bit expensive to live close to the school, but then again, it's a city. Try to know more about LA and UCLA before moving here, like public transportation, stores close by, etc. LA is a huge place so finding someone to answer your specific question can be hard (at least with my experiences).

In three sentences

UCLA has bricks almost everywhere and lots of stairs. The food is pretty good but not many delicious options for vegans. Being here as a transfer from a small city can be a little overwhelming.

MARIAM from Los Angeles, CA

UCLA has their own police officers so nothing ever goes wrong. Completely safe!

Greek Life

Join greek life if you can afford it! It makes the experience at UCLA so much funner. And the bonds you will form with your sisters and brothers last a lifetime.

Clubs and Activities

There are millions of clubs to join for any career, major or sport you are interested in. There are tons of volunteer opportunities along with internships and tutoring available for students. Also UCLA students can tutor one another and help one another apply to grad school.

Bang for the buck

Diddy Riese! Cheapest and most delicious ice cream shop ever and it is only in Westwood.

What to do for fun

Go to westwood! It is close by and they have everything you need including clothing stores and famous restaurants such as BJ's and CPK.

Food and Dining

There is a enormous variety of food available at UCLA. It is a buffet so what you get is up to you but they have anything and everything you can dream of so be careful of freshman 15.

Dorm Life

Dorming is the most life changing experience here at UCLA. All the students are eager to get to know one another. There is always some form of social event going on so you can never get bored. There is 3am delivery at a majority of the restaurants in Westwood so UCLA never sleeps.

Academic Rigor

The courses are mediocre compared to high school. If you take AP courses and community college courses while in high school you will be fine at UCLA. Always take notes, ask questions, attend discussion and go to office hours, you will graduate an honor student.

Tips for prospective students

Work hard in high school because the fun and laid back life awaits for you at UCLA. Taking AP courses makes classes at UCLA much easier than expected. Work extremely hard in high school and breeze through college.

In three sentences

Academically, socially and in overall rating UCLA is a top school. It has everything you need on campus and the people are amazing. It takes time to fit in but once you're in you never want to leave.

Maria from San Bernardino, CA

10/06/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I always feel safe on this campus. It is lit very well and offers many services that help students get around safely such as the van service, escort service, and emergency posts all around. Another safety mechanism is an alert that informs students about emergencies through text, email, and other methods.

Greek Life

I am not part of Greek life personally, but my room mates absolutely love it. They get to meet new people and feel like they are part of a family.

Clubs and Activities

There are hundreds of clubs on campus that cover a wide range of interests from sports, religion, cooking, language, dance, singing, and so many more. Any one can find their place here.

Great for these types of students

UCLA is great for any type of student. It offers so many majors that will fit any one's desires, clubs that offer great experiences, sports that will amaze any spectator, and a diverse community that makes any student feel welcome.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a rivalry that goes on between UCLA and USC which only increases school spirit which is nice around various sports events. There are various stories about different locations on campus, but in order to hear those, you're going to have to become a Bruin.

Bang for the buck

Any university is going to be expensive, but UCLA is worth the money. Being able to say that you went to one of the best universities in the country is something that definitely makes it worth the money and the experiences, friendships, and accomplishments you will have here only reinforce that.

What to do for fun

There is so much to do for fun. Being located in Los Angeles, there are many things surrounding the school including stores, great sights, amazing restaurants, and so much more. Located on campus, there are movies constantly being shown, clubs which set up various activities, and much much more.

Food and Dining

The dining experience here is amazing. The food is absolutely delicious and they provide something for everyone whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or no preference.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is amazing. It gives you many opportunities to meet new people, create study groups, and have a social experience at UCLA.

Academic Rigor

The professors at UCLA are very good at what they do so as long as you are a committed student who is determined to do well, you're academic achievements should reflect that. The staff is very helpful when students need help.

Tips for prospective students

Consider this school if you are looking for a diverse campus. Consider this school if you are looking for an amazing academic and personal college experience. Sports, community, and academics are very important to this school.

In three sentences

It is an amazing school that is perfect for anyone. It is very diverse and has everything that is needed for the perfect college experience. Its staff and students are very welcoming to new students.

Bryn from Long Beach, CA

LA is a pretty lively place... there isn't a lack for opportunity, that's for sure.

Food and Dining

they require me to rate it even though I haven't experienced it.

Dorm Life

can't say; haven't been.

Academic Rigor

When you find what you want, bite down like a pitbull and never let go.

Tips for prospective students

My only tip is study hard, follow your heart, and commit to a plan.

In three sentences

UCLA is architecturally beautiful, offering the most inspiring settings to pursue a future. The faculty and professors are more than experienced and help open minds and doorways for their students. Going to this school not only seems promising, but exciting!

Current First Year

Great. You can get texts and emails from BruinAlert as things happen on campus.

Greek Life

Plenty of fraternities and sororities to join. Many people rush.

Clubs and Activities

You have so many choices you can never know all of what happens on campus. It is easy to find a group you enjoy.

Great for these types of students

You're willing to work hard for many hours, often alone. You don't mind walking, usually alone. You can time manage well and you don't mind not having much time for fun, even on weekends.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Tunnels.

Bang for the buck

Great school overall. Again, just make sure you love the campus and don't mind studying hard for long hours.

What to do for fun

You can join clubs, sports, go hang out in Westwood, or attend football or basketball games. Dorm floors often have events as well.

Food and Dining

Food is awesome. There are tons of choices and all of it is great.

Dorm Life

If you don't like it quiet all the time and you like knowing a lot of people, live in a residence hall. The plazas are nice because you get your own bathroom, but they are quiet and it can get lonely. The suites are really far from everything, so only live in them if you truly love your surroundings quiet and you want to be very close to your roommate(s) and not many other people.

Academic Rigor

Classes are hard. They expect you to get more done than possible. You have to learn to manage your time. I haven't had much time for a personal life since classes started.

Tips for prospective students

Visit the campus during a regular school day when all the students are there. Make sure you love it - the campus, the crowds, etc. Only apply and attend if you are sure you can handle such a large school.

In three sentences

The school is very competitive. Classes are tough. You walk at least three or four miles a day just to get to class and back to your dorm.

Alice from Los Angeles, CA

10/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The UCLA Police Department is a real police department and will give out tickets. They police the UCLA and the surrounding area. Additionally, UCLA is located in a really safe part of Los Angeles. It is surrounded by Bel Air, Brentwood, and Beverly Hills. What can get safer than the 3 B's of rich Americans?

Greek Life

There are sororities, all-male fraternities, and co-ed fraternities on campus for just about everything. There are professional fraternities, interest fraternities and sororities, co-ed community service fraternities, religious fraternities, etc. Just find your niche.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many student organizations and extracurricular activities available for students. They can participate in Greek Life, Intramural sports, competitive Division I sports, student organizations and social organizations, just to name a few.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for all kinds of students. Every kind of student can find themselves here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Every year when a new group of students enter UCLA, they are Bruin-tized in the Inverted Fountain located by Franz Hall, the psychology building. Bruins are only allowed to touch the water in the Inverted Fountain once during their entire careers at UCLA. If a Bruin touches it more than once, legend says they get another year at UCLA, so unless you are a new student, don't touch that water again until you graduate! The Inverted Fountain looks like a toilet.

Bang for the buck

Tuition is increasing and it becomes harder for low-income people to pursue higher education, but UCLA's education is worth it. There are magnificent professors, so many things to do on and off campus, and I heard there are also great parties if you are into those

What to do for fun

UCLA is packed with so many extracurricular activities and student organizations to be a part of. From sports teams to hanging out in Westwood to working out in the gym or even going to downtown LA, there is always something to do. There is rarely a time where UCLA students have absolutely nothing to do.

Food and Dining

The food here is both good tasting and good for you! The dining halls here are ranked second in the nation in best food that is also food for you. Soon UCLA will be opening a new dining hall with organic foods. I cannot wait to try the food there!

Dorm Life

Dorm life depends on where you live. Living in a residential hall is very social and you can meet so many people, but it might be difficult to study. Living in plazas are great because you get your own bathroom (or a shared bathroom) and you get your own quiet space, but it is not as social as halls. You trade one for the other!

Academic Rigor

This school is very competitive in academics, especially if you become a South Campus major, which are the science majors. Be prepared to go against some of the world's best and brightest students!

Tips for prospective students

If you want to be a Bruin, you must be up to the challenge. UCLA is a very competitive school, but it is also a very fun school. There are so many things to do on campus. You might feel overwhelmed just by thinking of them. So much you want to do, so little time. However, you must remember to always make time for your studies because that is what you are paying for, your education here at UCLA.

In three sentences

In terms of academics, this school has some of the world's best and brightest students, so the school is very competitive in many ways. There are an abundance of extracurricular activities and student organizations that students can participate in and be apart of. The food here is also healthy and it tastes so good!

Nina from Los Angeles, CA

10/28/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I feel quite safe on campus. I am a girl and I still feel safe walking around / leaving school late in the evening. The surrounding area is very safe (Westwood) and not much happens besides a couple of stolen items once in a while.

Greek Life

Boring

Great for these types of students

Competitive, hard-workers.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Underground tunnels!!

Bang for the buck

UCLA likes to charge students for ANYTHING. Add a class a minute after midnight on Friday of Week 3.. Twenty dollars. Declare your major after the (too early) deadline.. Another twenty-something dollars. Fees, Fees, Fees!!! Forget about parking... The quarterly passes are expensive, the DAILY parking is absurd ($7 for 2hrs) !! AND... The school is a stickler about giving parking tickets. Don't ever go over on time for parking, they WILL give you a $60+ ticket. I mistakenly put the next parking spot number (say, 6295 instead of 6294) which is a very understandable mistake.. Paid the $18 for all day parking.. Came back to a $60+ ticket!! These people have no heart.

What to do for fun

BrewCo and O'Haras.. Once you are 21, these bars are alright

Food and Dining

De Neve is the best. Covel Commons is quite good also. I have only been to the dining hall a handful of times, however.

Dorm Life

I only lived in dorms for one summer session. It was nice, nothing huge on the social front, but that is because I stayed in Delta Terrace which is much smaller than the typical dorm towers. I enjoyed the proximity to campus and the dining halls have excellent food.

Academic Rigor

The school is quite difficult, if you are in a challenging major. BruinWalk is a good resource (search online, it is a website for students to rate professors/courses and find books) when looking for classes. You need to put in lots of effort to get the grade you want, because UCLA grades on a curve so you need to compete with hundreds of other students.

Tips for prospective students

Make connections with your professors because they can write you a letter of recommendation. I got a summer research job at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD this summer.. With help from my Neuroscience professor who has an MD/PhD. NOTE!! Since it is such a large school with huge classes, YOU need to make the effort to participate in lecture, attend office hours, and make yourself known.

In three sentences

UCLA is academically outstanding and students can select classes / major which interest them. My major, Cognitive Science, is an interdisciplinary field which combines computer programming, neuroscience, psychology, linguistics, and more. Socially, however, the school seems very segregated and some science students are far too competitive (have a tendency to sabotage others grades due to curve).

Anonymous

11/11/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

186 of 356

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Campus Safety

It's an open campus. But way safe. Especially compared to a certain school on the other side of town. On campus, it's very well lit and there's always people walking around. We also have an escort service if you don't want to walk by yourself late at night. You have to swipe to get into any of the dorm buildings and usually swipe again to use the elevator. UCLA is situated in a safe haven in LA, between Bel Air, Brentwood, and Beverly Hills. Overall, we are a very safe campus of its size and location.

Clubs and Activities

Anything that does not yet exist at UCLA, you can contribute to the campus. We have a nationally recognized newspaper, the Daily Bruin, we have a large selection of recreational classes to take at the Wooden Center, we have all sorts of organizations large and small for whatever you are comfortable with, whether it is a small philanthropic student group, or the huge Student Alumni Association that plans all sorts of events including the Spring Sing and Beat 'SC week, there is so much to offer if you look into it, a good way to make a large school population have a smaller community feel!

Great for these types of students

UCLA is the place for hardworking students who work hard, play hard, and sleep hard. At any given time, there is always someone sleeping, studying, eating, or running. So if you love to eat, but want to stay fit; if you need to get high grades, but also want hang out with new friends; if you want to do everything but still enjoy sleep, this is the place for you! We excel at academics, school spirit, athletics, food, and extra-curriculars. If you are passionate about something or are looking to find a passion, if you are motivated and hardworking, you will enjoy your time at UCLA!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

UCLA has a lot of interesting things: - The Sculpture Garden: ranked #1 place to make out by Playboy - Beat 'SC Bonfire: yes, a giant bonfire the week before the game - Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Gardens: just the fact that we have one.. - Being Bruintized at Orientation: an unusual tradition involving the inverted fountain - Fun Fact: UCLA has been filmed to represent Harvard more times than Harvard has! - The Undie Run...said to have originated at UCLA... - spotted on bruinwalk: an online feed where you can talk about hot strangers you spot around campus, very entertaining to read - The Spring Sing: people like Sara Bareilles and Maroon 5 have performed at this talent show that people camp out for to get tickets - other weird things, some of which are more secretive than others, but all contribute to campus life and legacy

Bang for the buck

UCs are pretty expensive for public schools...but they are also the best in the nation. Is it worth it? So far, my experience has been pretty amazing, and UCLA gives access to so much! But of course, I don't have much to compare to and not much experience to judge this on.

What to do for fun

There is always something to do. So cliche, but really. We have state of the art facilities with our Wooden Center, always packed with students working out. We have amazing athletes, whether it is boarding the Rooter Bus to trek through LA to hit the Rose Bowl, or turning on bruinwalk to watch a basketball game at (the BRAND NEW) Pauley Pavilion, or any other sports, from tennis matches to quidditch tournaments to soccer games and waterpolo games, it's hard to find a day without a sports event. There are over 900 student organizations on campus. That means that whether you're a fashionista, a movie lover, a die hard Disney fan, a singer, an amateur photographer or interested in joining an organization for Chinese, Jewish, LGBT, Muslim, Korean, Latino, or basically any other ethnic, religious, etc group, there is something for you. All of these organizations hold regular events that occur both on and off campus where you can make friends who share similar interests. Plays, concerts, a massive talent show known as Spring Sing, networking events, movie sneaks, guest lecturers...just on campus. In Westwood, you can go to a cute dinner with a few of your friends...or perhaps see some of the biggest Hollywood stars walk down the red carpet at a movie premier. Whether you want to go out or stay in, there is always something to do, and someone to do it with you. Weekends open up a new world: Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Los Angeles and beyond. Though LA hardly boasts a good system of public transportation, there is always a way to get where you want to be, from buses, trains, cars, or even a bike ride down to the beach. I don't think it is possible to be bored, because even when you are studying you are usually too stressed to be bored.

Food and Dining

If there is one area that UCLA succeeds at, it's food. Ranked number two in the nation, people actually come visit UCLA to eat at a dining hall. Where else would this happen? UCLA has four dining halls that are buffet style. De Neve is the most popular, with everything from American favorites such as burgers, pizza and a salad bar, to daily specials that can feature different ethnic dishes, to the glorious section dedicated to dessert. Covel is it's smaller counterpart, famous for it's wood-fired pizza. Feast at Reiber opened last year and features rotating Pan-Asian cuisines, with two features per meal (like Japanese and Chinese, or Indian and Thai, etc). Hedrick is currently under renovation, and rumor are flying as to what it may feature. All dining halls have options for vegetarians and vegans as well. There are also four quick serve restaurants. Bruin Cafe, or b-caf, features deli sandwiches, soups, salads and wraps, with combos that you can get for a swipe, as well as a selection of Coffee Bean coffee and smoothies as well as a range of baked goods (the famous vegan chocolate chip cookies!). What is even better is that b-caf is open until 2 am for late night coffee runs during finals! Cafe 1919 is an Italian restaurant that has personal pizzas, paninis, salads, and desserts including, yes, gelato and tiramisu. This place is dangerously good and you get a very full meal with a swipe. Rendezvous has two sides, the Mexican side and the Asian side. Mexican has burritos, quesadillas, nachos, etc, and the Asian side serves up Panda Express-like combos. Both sides have daily specials as well to spice things up. Rende is open until midnight so you won't get hungry at night! Finally, De Neve dining hall is transformed into Late Night at 9 pm, where you can get all the comfort food you want, from burgers, to chicken tenders, curly fries, onion rings, mozzarella sticks, and milkshakes for all your late night cravings. Basically, I regularly bribe people to visit me by offering to swipe them in. So UCLA has great food all over the hill. On campus, we have everything from subway to yoshinoya. And Westwood has the famous Diddy Riese, Fat Sals, 800 Degrees...and more common ones that meet every craving from Corner Bakery, BJs, Yogurtland, Chipotle and In n Out, to Japanese food, Korean BBQ, boba, shawarma, and much more. One thing for sure is that you will never go hungry. As for the freshman fifteen...well the unavoidable abundance of stairs throughout campus will help you with that!

Dorm Life

While UC dorms in general are not the best, UCLA makes even triples seem comfortable. With three types of housing, students can opt for the highly social residential halls with communal bathrooms where doors are always left open to welcome new friends, residential plazas with private (or shared between two rooms) bathrooms where a more quiet community allows for much needed quiet time to rest and study, or residential suites that are not halls at all but apartment-like and good for non-first years to share with close friends. However, being UC dorms, the hill, which is where all of the dorm buildings are situated, features overall small rooms with mostly triples. Of course depending on your building, you can get one with air conditioning and private bathrooms, or you can enjoy the full college experience with no air and communal bathrooms. One thing that UCLA does a good job on is keeping everything up to date. There really isn't any really old building since there is rotational renovations constantly. There is always construction. Always. As for being social, I got lucky because even though I ended up in the smallest plaza building with private bathrooms, my small floor is tight knit and we are like family despite the many second and third years on my floor. Regardless, even with an unsocial floor, all you have to do is go on a random floor in a res hall building and make enough noise and people will just come flocking. Everything is pretty clean and depending on your building or plaza, the floor government is pretty good and everywhere on the hill the hill government is very active and involved planning all sorts of events. RAs are really nice (from everything I've heard!), even private bathrooms are cleaned weekly, maintenance is just one call away, and there is access to all sorts of information, vacuum cleaners, board games, music practice rooms, movies, karaoke, laundry machines, microwaves and everything else you could possibly need. Overall, though I was really apprehensive coming in, dorm life has been amazing!

Academic Rigor

UCLA offers a plethora of majors and minors. Whether completing prereqs for a major, a random class to fulfill a GE, or a smaller upper division class for your major or minor, UCLA students don't have to worry about the quality of education. That said, students should expect to be challenged. While some may feel at home and at ease in a chemistry class, those same students may struggle in an English composition course. UCLA staff includes includes Nobel Prize winners, Fulbright Scholars and a Fields Medal recipient. Classes are challenging and rigorous. The quarter system keeps students on their toes and allows students to make the most of their academic careers. Furthermore, the energy, enthusiasm and determination of fellow students push you to try harder and go above and beyond. With the amazing resources offered by the university, no one has an excuse to slow down. This energetic community and the standard that professors hold students to contribute to rigorous academics that prepare students for the world.

Tips for prospective students

Come visit! Immerse yourself in the campus where there is always something exciting going on, whether it be a concert, a movie filming, a basketball game or an activist protest. When I first stepped foot on campus, I could feel the energy. It seemed like everyone was involved in something, and working on an agenda. Coming here, I realized it was true. There are endless activities to get involved in. There are so many events just for students. The beautiful buildings are what you walk by every day, and all of Westwood is at your disposal whether you need groceries from Ralphs and Target or if you are standing in line for the famous Diddy Riese ice cream sandwiches. The Christmas lights that decorate the streets of Westwood yearlong add to the welcoming atmosphere of the neighborhood, something impressive for such a large school in such a large city to say. While the academic prowess can speak for itself, campus life is so much more. UCLA has won more NCAAs than any other university. Unlike many highly academic schools, UCLA is anything but lacking in the school spirit department. From the random 8-claps heard around campus on a daily basis to the thousands of people strong cheers at the Rose Bowl or Pauley Pavilion, UCLA athletes make sure that there is always a reason to proudly bleed blue. Rich in tradition, UCLA engraves itself in your life from the beginning--being bruintized at orientation, learning the 8-clap, and having a week of welcome events to kick off fall quarter. UCLA brings together the best of all worlds: the rich tradition and athletic history of a state school, the quality research and academics of a world wide top ranked school, and the facilities, affluence and alumni network that parallel that of a privately funded school. All that is necessary to sell the school is one visit! How to get here? Well, UCLA has an amazingly diverse population. Many students were top of their classes in high school, with perfect GPAs and an impressive list of awards and extra-curriculars to follow. However, there are many more here for their athletic talent, artistic genius, or perhaps entrepreneurial gift. While we all have strengths in different areas, one thing is for sure: every student at UCLA is admitted for a reason. So use the essays as a chance to tell YOUR story, get involved in things that you are passionate about, and maintain a high standard for academics. While there is no sure formulaic way that can guarantee admission when just under 16000 students were admitted from an application pool of over 72000 for incoming freshmen in Fall 2012, an acceptance rate of about 21%, significantly lower than past years and expected to continue. That said, genuine passion comes through in applications. Look not to inflate your grades through dishonest means, or to fill up your resume with a list of clubs you are supposedly involved in, do things you would want to do even if colleges didn't look at it. That way when you write about it, the admissions committee will see a potential student that will contribute to the community at UCLA. Don't let low test scores or something deter you from applying, give yourself a chance, and know that no matter what happens, not all qualified applicants are admitted, and if you are truly all that you believe yourself to be, you will succeed wherever you end up, and you WILL love it.

In three sentences

Amazing academics, beautiful campus, wonderful location, top ranked (academically, athletically, even food!). UCLA is a jewel in the heart of sunny LA, with beautiful weather, beautiful architecture, beautiful people, and an endless list of things to brag about, and obnoxious ways to do so. A bruin born, a bruin bred, bruins til the day we're dead.

Tony from San Jose, CA

11/13/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus safety is always a concern, especially since UCLA is an open campus, but there are some great resources to keep yourself safe. You can hire a Community Service Officer (CSO) to walk you right up to your front door, and the service runs until 1am. There are also the evening vans, which run from 6 to 11, which have many different drop off and pick-up locations in Westwood, the apartments west of campus, on-campus, and 1 stop south of Wilshire.

Clubs and Activities

There is not a shortage of activities to do on campus, whether you want to volunteer, to talk business, or to meet with people with the same background as you. I highly suggest checking out a few clubs on your first couple weeks just to see the atmosphere and then sticking to one club to invest your time in, so that you can be busy!

Great for these types of students

People who want research opportunities and industry opportunities, especially since UCLA is in one of the biggest cities of the country. People who enjoy a diverse campus.

Bang for the buck

For residents in California, UCLA is a top tier university that is cheaper than private schools. For those outside of California, UCLA is just as expensive as normal. Residents of California enjoy the residential price, so it makes going here slightly more worth it. However, the expansive resources and opportunities present on campus really make going to UCLA worth it.

What to do for fun

Westwood is a great area to do things for fun. There's Rocket Fizz in Westwood which is a fun, poppin' candy store where you can eat a ton of different candies while also buying coke in a glass bottle. You can watch movies on Broxton and Weyburn, where there are three theaters that play 1 movie each, and usually the most recent releases. Even going to dinner or lunch in Westwood is fun: you can go to 800 Degrees and make your own pizza. There are also a plethora of coffee shops if you're more into studying somewhere outside with a nice cup of chai latte.

Food and Dining

The food is delicious! They just opened up Feast, which is the Asian-themed dining hall, and has a variety of different foods every day. Every other place has a lot of the same items, but Covel is probably my favorite along with De Neve. There's also Rendezvous for that late night snack. If cooking is your thing, you have a variety of grocery stores to choose from: Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Ralphs, and Target.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is pretty okay as far as I know (since I've only ever commuted/lived in apartments). As long as you are flexible about your living arrangements--and you'll have to be, because you'll be sharing--then you should be good. Hedrick is a long walk, Sproul is nice and close but it is a hall, and De Neve is okay too.

Academic Rigor

Pretty tough if you're used to procrastinating and pushing things off until the day before it's due. But if you work hard, your effort will pay off.

Tips for prospective students

Use all the resources you can, especially the Scholarship Resource Center, the LGBT center, counseling in Murphy Hall, the test bank in Student Activities Center, the Writing Success Program in the Student Activities Center, and the student media in Kerchoff.

In three sentences

A great school with an extensive amount of resources that make the opportunities nearly endless. There's a diverse campus and includes the faculty and the student body. The professors here, especially in the Humanities and Social Sciences, are invested in breadth and depth of understanding in subjects.

KEANA from HAWTHORNE, CA

Campus safety is excellent. Five stars definitely since you will always see safety security patrolling the campus at all times, thus ensuring your safety and education at UCLA as safe as poissible.

Greek Life

I've heard that there are many great Greek sororities and fraternities on campus. Many of them seem very friendly and welcoming also.

Clubs and Activities

An array of clubs to fit each individual needs.

Great for these types of students

Great for students who want to go to a diverse, fun, intersting, cultured university with many options to do, go, and have fun.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Undie Run is an unusual tradition where every quarter during final week, hundreds of students gather and run around UCLA in their undies (conservative of course) and pajamas to celebrate the ending of their finals.

Bang for the buck

UCLA is a great campus with great and welcoming students. You'll feel right at home here when you attend. The teachers are excellent, the food is awesome, the campus is beautiful, the dorms are amazing, the people are friendly, so many thing to do on campus as well as the city, ten minutes from the lovely beach, and most of all you'll be attending one of the most top schools in the nation and even world.

What to do for fun

You can do absolutely anything for fun here. There are so many diverse clubs, organizations, recreational centers, 10 minutes from the beach and in the heart of LA- which is where all the fun is.

Food and Dining

Amazing food from some of the world's top chefs. Everything to choose from.

Dorm Life

Great dorm life and the dorm leaders make your incoming dorm and college experience so welcoming and warm.

Academic Rigor

UCLA ranks 13 in the world's top 400 Universities.

Tips for prospective students

Great campus with a lot of school spirit and resources to help you succeed in your endeavors.

In three sentences

UCLA is a great educational institution with such a rigorous and efficient education format. The campus is very diverse and beautiful. The architecture of the classrooms is magnificent and adds such beautiful touch.

Jacob from Newbury Park, CA

Community service officers, UCPD, and the staff manage problems with grace. Traffic and driver pedestrian relations can be strained.

Greek Life

Greek life has a strong presence with Gayley the street forming the core of the frat row. I am not a big fan of Greek life, but those that are find that UCLA has many options.

Clubs and Activities

So many options! 900+!

Great for these types of students

Large school people, social people, city people, SoCal weather lovers, hard working students.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Inverted fountain, Pauley Pavilian, sunset terrace obstacle course. H

Bang for the buck

If you are a CA resident attending makes use of the taxes your parents paid. UCLA has great networking opportunities also!

What to do for fun

I watch movies in Westwood at Bruin theater, go running in drake stadium, go swim at sunset rec, hangout with my floor mates and friends. Partying is at the right balance where it doesn't dominate.

Food and Dining

Dining halls serve great food with lots of options and quick serve restaurant have flexible hours. Food is always accessible. Some dining halls are under construction which is a bummer.

Dorm Life

I love my dorm floor. Occasionally they are loud late at night, but you just have to buck up the courage to tell them to be quiet.

Academic Rigor

There are definitely classes that challenge students, especially math classes. There are also a handful of classes that are known to be jokes. It's best to challenge yourself.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure to strive for a high GPA as UC schools value your GPA relative to your high school. AP credit helps with gaining priority registration. Be prepared to deal with crowds and lots of walking!

In three sentences

UCLA is a dynamic university with research opportunities, a powerful athletic department, and well-rounded students. It is a large school that relies on public funding but its largeness contributes to its well known reputation and plethora of student groups. Los Angeles is a city with something for everyone and provides an excellent backdrop to UCLA.

joo youn from Los Angeles, CA

Let your enthusiasm for college life multifunction into class participation and studiousness.

In three sentences

In my opinion, UCLA is the best UC institution. The urban environment and social resources are endless with UCLA. However, the surrounding pedestrian walkways in Westwood must be completely improved by all means necessary.

Billy from South El Monte, CA

11/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

CSULA is great for individuals who have their mind set on the goals they want to accomplish and have the inspiration to do it. CSULA offers great academic guidance the only thing necessary to succeed is having the will power to excel. The school is filled with students who both go to school and work in order to attain the experience needed for their field of interest.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Confucius stands behind our library sharing wisdom and enlightenment to all who embrace it. With his statue, his quotes, and blessing one feels a sense of enlightenment and hope especially throughout and stressful week of finals.

Bang for the buck

CSULA has showed me that their are individuals like me struggling to become successful in their careers but most importantly in life. The majority of the students commute only because they work in order to financially help support their families and themselves. The students at Cal State LA are no joke, they are hard working individuals with focused minds ready to make a difference in their communities. With this type of vibe, any individual attending the university will have the motivation to strive and be successful.

What to do for fun

Cal State LA has much to offer when it comes to entertainment. With The Pit and underground lobby where students are able to socialize with their colleagues while playing pool, ping pong, foosball, watching movies, and even play their favorite video games. CSULA also offers the Xtreme fitness center where students are offered a gym membership at no cost. Residing next to one of the biggest metropolitan cities of the world CSULA is full of fun things to do both on and off campus.

Food and Dining

Like attending the mall's food court, CSULA is filled with a variety of food and dining. Cal State LA's food court varies from Mexican dishes, Susi, Carl's JR, Pollo Loco, Starbucks Coffee, pizza and much more. CSULA also has its own diner where students get the specialty of the day and are able to eat and chat with friends. Since CSULA is next to LA, many restaurants neighbor the school and are walking distances away.

Dorm Life

CSULA is known as commuting school, where the majority of the students live off campus and either drive or take public transportation to school. However, the dorm life is filled with new friends, ideas, values but most importantly it is the beginning of a new independent lifestyle.

Academic Rigor

One must not worry about how rigorous a school is but worry about how much knowledge will be attained by attending the school. Cal State LA provides knowledge, beliefs, and academic values. Professors at every class room excel in their fields of study and strive for every single student attaining the highest level of education they can offer. As rigorous as a professor may seem, the more time he or she spends preparing him or herself so that her pupils become prosperous individuals with promising futures.

Tips for prospective students

Making it to Univeristy is something to already be proud of. Commencing our new journeys and following the pathways set at the California State University Of Los Angeles will help you meet new people from various backgrounds solving similar problems. Every prospective student must realize that although it may seem like their new journey is a solitary one, the thousands of individuals attending CSULA are willing to help everyone out.

In three sentences

California State Univeristy of Los Angeles is abundantly overwhelmed with individuals enlightened with high dreams and fulfilling expectations. The school, professors, but most importantly its' students manifest complete dedication for a more prosperous life and future. With individuals from diverse ethnicity's and backgrounds Cal State LA forms a community like no other thus enhances a new life style that all its' attendees now share and creates a one of a kind experience.

Brenda from Rancho Cordova, CA

12/08/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Westwood is a pretty safe city. Like in most places, just don't wander around alone at 3-4am and you should be fine. There's been some issues of campus climate as of recent, but the students have been working on reforming that. Be proactive about your college experience-- it's yours!

Greek Life

There's lots of Greek Life! Pan-Hellenic ones have blocks and streets of Fraternity/Sorority houses. There are also cultural fraternities/sororities, and interest fraternities (such as pre-med/health/pharmacy, pre-business, pre-law, pre-entrepreneurship, community service).

Clubs and Activities

There is a club for every interest-- and if there isn't, you can start one! Our Quidditch team is amazing. There are also a lot of club sports and intramurals,

Great for these types of students

Open-minded students willing to try new things. Especially wonderful for proactive students who enjoy community organizing/working with various communities and gaining real-world skills. If you want to become a well-rounded individual, UCLA is definitely a great place for that. Do community organizing, political advocacy, volunteer, research, work, and network--all while be a student.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Rubbing Bruin Bear's foot during Finals week to bring luck! Skipping the 6th step of Jans Step (or else old man Jans will turn over in his grave!) Touching Portola fountain only once during your undergraduate or else you won't graduate. Schoenberg Quad sinks six inches every 12 years. Raising your Bruin Card if you're lost!--Someone will stop to help you.

Bang for the buck

Capitalize on your opportunities and college experience and it will be worth every penny. Take the time to invest in resources and spaces you enjoy. There's a LOT of free and cheap things to do in the greater LA area. A lot of services are offered to you as a UCLA student--utilize them!

What to do for fun

There's so many tourist attractions within a 30 minute bus ride (discounted rate for bus and entrance as a UCLA student)! The Hammer Museum, the Fowler (on campus), La Brea Tar Pits, Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the Getty, Santa Monica and Venice Beach(es), and Third Street Promenade. Drive out to downtown LA for authentic Asian and Hispanic cuisine- there's also loads of good food places in Westwood.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is amazing! I had about 120 students living on my floor my first year. I knew everyone on our floor. We were considered the social dorms, and that's exactly what we lived up to be. The facilities themselves, were a bit rundown (currently under renovation). What we lacked in facilities, we made up for in providing a comfortable environment. Many of my best friends now (2 years later) came from that floor. There's always activities to do and the dorms are all relatively close to each other, so even if you have a friend in another dorm, they're only a 5-10 minute walk away.

Academic Rigor

It is definitely a tough school to attend. There's a lot of smart, motivated, and dedicated people here. But you can be one of those people, too! The quarter system is not fun (ten weeks of lectures and essays/midterms--varies from class to class, and one week of finals) and moves very quickly. However, you will find that you can do well, if you learn how you study best. It's not the student that studies everything that does the best, it's the student who knows how they study best and really utilizes it. Some classes are curved-- be especially cautious of these courses. Most of the professors are passionate about their work and would love to talk to students outside of lecturing them.

Tips for prospective students

Work hard now and make your application as strong as possible. It is NOT an easy school, but with hard work and a good idea on what you want to do with your life, you'll do just fine. Even if you don't have a definite answer, find organizations that you feel you relate to-- they'll become your support system and you will eventually find your way. Be open-minded and willing to try new things such as clubs, sports, activities, food, or classes.

In three sentences

UCLA is full of academic and social opportunities. There are extensive numbers of organizations to become involved with--many of which work directly in communities around the greater LA area as well as even in Mexico (really great volunteer opportunities). There is always something to do whether it is exploring tourist sites, exploring LA night life, or trying out new food from a culture you've never heard about or have always wanted to try.

Jaquesha from Los Angeles, CA

12/15/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The underwear run is a UCLA tradition that occurs during finals week. After most students are finished with finals to help relax stress some students decide to let loose, literally, and run across campus. A very unusual tradition that not all students partake in.

What to do for fun

There's always something to do on campus such as the gym, social gatherings, or student organized programs, however if those are not appealing to you there's always West wood. The area surrounding campus is filled with numerous restaurants, bars, and movie theaters. The opportunities for fun are limitless.

Food and Dining

The food is great as long as you are able to manage your diet and eat wise. Although the dining halls offer salad bars and fruit, most students find themselves eating at the numerous cafe styled restaurants near the resident halls. These restaurants accept your meal swipes and unfortunately offer little to no healthy meal choices and provide students with extremely large portions. The food served at these locations, although unhealthy, is very delicious and can definitely cause the freshmen 15lbs.

Dorm Life

If you enjoy meeting friendly people on a day to day basis while your walking to the restroom or on the elevator, UCLA is the place for you. Dorm life is characterized here by those awkward but welcomed moments when you meet a new person doing not so new activities such as laundry or even brushing your teeth.

Academic Rigor

This university offers access to some of the most well informed and entertaining professors in their field. Actual experts teach classes on subjects they are infamous for working in. Definitely a great place to get first head knowledge on subject matter.

Tips for prospective students

Research university. Remember it is one of the top research universities in country. So be prepared to do research. Learn quickly because UCLA is on the quarter system and ten weeks flies by quickly.

In three sentences

This university is a great place all around. It offers rigorous and informative courses on numerous subjects. It provides students with an phenomenally diverse social experience daily.

Bahjat

There are police officers everywhere, and the campus is very safe. Incidents do occur sometimes however.

Greek Life

Excellent Greek Life. Many active frats and sororities that throw parties and events.

Clubs and Activities

There is a countless number of clubs, and activities are held everyday. There is always something to do.

Great for these types of students

IntellHardworking but like to have fun at the same time.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Undie run during finals week, where everyone runs in their underwear.

Bang for the buck

UCLA is really expensive..

What to do for fun

There is so much to do in LA, and especially UCLA. Concerts, cafes, movies, beaches, and sights.

Food and Dining

The food at UCLA is so good and delicious. If you want affordable dining, the Hill is the place to go. There is also on campus dining but it gets expensive if you keep eating there.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is distracting because it is so much fun. The residence halls especially are extremely social and there are always people to hang out with. However, living in a triple can get a little annoying sometimes.

Academic Rigor

UCLA is not a really laid back school, and it can get quite tough. You should NEVER slack off at UCLA. If you do, you are in big trouble because catching up is hard. Just study on a day to day basis and you will be fine.

Tips for prospective students

Work really hard in high school, because UCLA is quite difficult to get into. However, it is rewarding. If you get accepted, you will see that the hard work is worth it in the end.

In three sentences

UCLA has really good dining services on the hill. The professors at UCLA are very helpful. The campus location is the best in the world.

Jenny from San Jose, CA

12/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are always people around you and an emergency phone station every few yards away.

Greek Life

UCLA has a huge greek community and there will always be someone affiliated around you. I'm involved in the greek life and it has impacted my college experience for the better. Life would definitely not be the same without it. Plus, the connections you'll have are exclusive.

Clubs and Activities

Hundreds of clubs to choose from and so many activities to participate in.

Great for these types of students

College is great for everyone and universities should not restrict those yearning for higher education by denying them admission!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Nothing is unusual at UCLA. Traditions we have are undie runs (every end of the quarter) and midnight yells, all to alleviate the stressful minds of hard-working students.

Bang for the buck

Who can afford college nowadays? Of course, the experiences one achieves in college are priceless, but the real price you pay is more than $30,000 a year.

What to do for fun

UCLA is full of life from sunrise to sunset. There are always students on campus participating in clubs, rehearsing for dances, singing, etc. You can also jog around campus, take a stroll through the many gardens, relax in one of the libraries, work out at the gym, hang around Ackerman, go to Westwood... the possibilities are endless!

Food and Dining

UCLA dining is amazing and ranks pretty high compared to other schools. They'll agree.

Dorm Life

First two years of your college experience is a must! Not only will you have the freedom and experience of living in co-ed dorms, but you will also meet great people that could potentially be your greatest friends.

Academic Rigor

It's tough, so you'll have to get yourself together and don't slack off.

Tips for prospective students

DO NOT procrastinate. Stop it! It's a terrible habit. And go to class. Even when it's raining. Do your work in advance. You'll thank your future self a lot. Study hard, but have fun. Have lots of fun. You're only a college student once.

In three sentences

The campus is breathtaking, beautiful, and full of life. Everyone is so determined that it motivates you to do your best as well. Being at UCLA is a privilege, but amongst all the studious hard-workers, they still make time to have fun and make the most out of their college experience.

Evan from Pleasanton, CA

12/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Being located in a very wealthy area of Los Angeles, UCLA is a very safe campus with a history of very low crime rates. However, if one ever doesn't feel safe when walking back to the dorms, a campus escort service is at your disposal to call and an agent will personally walk you back.

Greek Life

Though one doesn't have to be part of Greek life to feel a part of UCLA, it definitely is an option that many students consider. Like clubs, Greek life offers a way for students to find their niche on campus. There are a variety of social and professional fraternities that are all unique in their own aspect and being a part of one can allow for many exciting events.

Clubs and Activities

With over 800 clubs and organizations on campus, you'll be guaranteed to find your niche at UCLA if you actively seek it out. During zero week (the week before classes officially start), the school holds a huge club fair where all the social and professional organizations come out to advertise and hand out flyers. Finding a club to become active in will definitely help enrich the college experience. Joining clubs is not only is it a great way to explore interests and diversify perspectives, but also an excellent way to socialize and meet new people. The great diversity of organizations is definitely here for your benefit so take full advantage of it!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Be prepared for a rude awakening if you are asleep by midnight on finals week! ItÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â?s an informal school tradition to scream at the top of your lungs out of dorm windows at midnight during finals week. UCLA also has an Ã?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â?undie runÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â? during finals week where students run around campus in their undergarments to relieve stress.

Bang for the buck

UCLA is ranked by U.S. news as the second best public education institution in the nation, so you are receiving an elite education while still paying a good amount less than private colleges. However, due to recent budget cuts, the school finding ways to cut down on spending and one consequence of this is that students do not receive as much individual attention due to a high student to faculty ratio. However, I feel that this is a small price to pay to experience the diversity of the student body, superior food, the variety of clubs/organizations, and the glamour of the city of Los Angeles which all allow for a very enriching and enlightening college experience.

What to do for fun

With a big city like Los Angeles, there are endless opportunities for fun; however, it really depends on what you and your friends are feeling at the moment. If youÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â?re not looking to go too far and just want to get off campus for a bit, Westwood is a quick 15 minute walk from campus. You can find a wide variety of restaurants representing different cultures, hookah lounges, and movie theaters where you can just kick it and relax with friends. If youÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â?re looking to go further out from campus, public transportation will be your best friend because the bus lines will take you close to any destination. Santa Monica is definitely a popular place to hangout for students with its abundance of activities and attractions such as the beach, shopping, theme park rides, and street performers. Then thereÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â?s Hollywood, Universal Studios, clubbing, and an abundance of museums (the most famous being the Getty Center). Chinatown, Koreatown, and Sawtelle offer some of the best ethnic foods for a reasonable price. You can find all you can eat Korean barbecue at K-town for 10-15 dollars! If youÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â?re adventurous enough, youÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â?ll never become bored of L.A!

Food and Dining

The food at UCLA is unbeatable. The only way I can describe it is that itÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â?s like eating at an all you can eat restaurant every day; all the food is absolutely delicious. If you ever get bored of the dining hall food, the cafes near the dorm offer tasty alternatives such as paninis, quesadillas, burritos, Chinese specialties, and tasty desserts such as gelatto, cheesecake, and smoothies. Everything is conveniently located near the dorms. Definitely watch out for freshman 15 because it's very possible here.

Dorm Life

Though freshman will most likely end up in a triple rather than the classic double due to recent budget cuts, UCLA still caters to studentsÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â? wants and needs by offering three types of dorms: halls, plazas, and suites. Residence halls are the classic college dorms with a communal bathroom and a lounge for hanging out. Plazas are more spacious and they usually share a bathroom and shower with an adjacent room. Suites have the most space because they have a living room shared among 5-6 people. Halls are typically are the loudest and the most social as they are generally populated by freshman who are looking to meet new people. The best Room Assistants are placed in halls because of this because they do a very good job in creating a sense of community among a hall's 50-90 residents. Plazas are a little quieter and tend to be occupied by 2nd and 3rd years who have found their niche in school. Lastly, suites are the quietest because they are like mini apartments. The choice is yours where you want to live!

Academic Rigor

Being the most applied to school in the US, you can expect the academics to be competitive. The difficulty of the academia varies with one's major with science and math based majors being the most difficult, but any major can expect to set anywhere from 10-20 hours a week studying. Part of the academic rigor can be attributed to a high student to faculty ratio and many times youÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â?ll have to spend extra effort to teach yourself the material in order to fully understand it. Also, donÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â?t be surprised when you find that the average on a test is a D because the tests are often difficult! But no worries, many professors do this purposely and compensate for it by grading classes on a bell curve where a set amount of people get AÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â?s, BÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â?s, etc. Nevertheless, be warned that the bell curve can sometimes work against you if the class average is unusually high! All in all, youÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â?re going to have to push yourself and work hard to do well at UCLA. But if you can remain focused, youÃ?Â¢Ã?Â?Ã?Â?ll do fine. Lastly, don't beat yourself up over a bad grade! It happens to the best of everyone!

Tips for prospective students

Keep an open mind when entering the school. UCLA is indeed a college that can be described as a melting pot. It's extremely diverse student population with many international students from all over the world is what makes the school unique. You'll be exposed to so many different perspectives and you'll realize that everybody has a story to tell; it's what your fellow piers have to say and offer that makes an experience at UCLA enriching, unique, and enlightening. Furthermore, take advantage of all the resources that UCLA has to offer, especially the wide variety of clubs. It may take some courage to try and join something you are new and uncomfortable to, but that's what college is all about! Who knows when a random club you'll join will later become your passion. Lastly, don't be afraid to venture out into the city with your friends! Take advantage of UCLA's proximity to the amazing city of Los Angeles and everything it has to offer!

In three sentences

In short, UCLA is one of the most balanced schools in the country. It offers outstanding academics and amazing social networking opportunities due to the abundance of clubs and organizations and the prominence of Greek life. One of UCLA's biggest attractions is its proximity to the city of Los Angeles which gives its students limitless opportunities for adventure and exploration and the urban feel that so many incoming college freshman wish for!

Mireille from Glendale, CA

12/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are UCLA police who are actually meant for LA and UCLA as well, who work around the clock and make sure UCLA is safe. Also, they have an escort service students can use at night if they do not want to walk to their dorms or car alone.

Great for these types of students

Students who want to come out of their comfort zone, experience a new place with so many different cultures and backgrounds to be mixed into.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

During finals week, every night at 12AM everyone yells out of their windows or while walking around to let out some of the steam from studying.

What to do for fun

Get involved! Join a club, or sport team, make friends and go to Westwood. UCLA is strategically placed in a very hip spot where there is always something to do!

Food and Dining

Food is excellent, especially in the dorms.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is what you make it. If you get involved, and are social with your dorm-mates, it is amazing. Dorms are small and large depending on which building you live in and how many roommates you have, but a small dorm is not a problem because you don't spend a lot of time there.

Academic Rigor

There is no such thing as an easy class, but there are many classes which are interesting, making your duty of receiving an A letter grade very doable. The academics are rigorous and demanding, but very enlightening as well.

Tips for prospective students

Work hard on your high school grades, but most of all work on your personal statement and make it stand out to the readers. Make them get to know you without directly telling them who you are, perhaps through an anecdote or an experience. The personal statement is a chance for students to shine and tell the school things they otherwise would not now about them, so make it count!

In three sentences

UCLA has a lot of diversity, and that's probably one of the best parts of attending UCLA, that everywhere I turn there are different races and ethnicity that i familiarize myself with. The education is also rigorous and challenging, making it the perfect environment to grow and learn about oneself. Lastly, UCLA has a great way of bringing together the 30,000 plus students that attend through activities, fairs, sports and recreation, therefore, even though it is a big school you do not feel so small.

Lily from Los Angeles, CA

12/29/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are lighted pathways all over campus to ensure student safety, UCLA has their own police department, and there is a free evening van service so people so not have to walk in the dark, as well as an escort service where people come and walk you back to your dorm.

Greek Life

The frats and sororities are dedicated to maintaining high GPA's along with devoting time to community service projects. The social life is good regardless of whether or not you are involved in greek life, I promise!

Clubs and Activities

You can create any club you want. We have hundreds already ranging from student government, to mentorship positions, to harry potter fanatics. You can find what you're looking for.

Great for these types of students

UCLA is great for people who are interested in attending a school where they can be academically challanged, have great research opportunities, and become the person who they want to be.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

UNDIE RUN!! The week of finals, thousands of students run across campus. In their underwear. It is so much fun.

Bang for the buck

UCLA is a top ranked public university, and I feel like I am getting what I pay for in terms of classes, on campus activities, and student life.

What to do for fun

Westwood neighbors Santa Monica Beach, and is a short drive from some pretty awesome hiking trails. The opportunities are limitless, and you can even sign up for cool classes, like kayaking and yoga through UCLA.

Food and Dining

I love to eat, and there are tons of options both in the residential dining halls, on campus, and off campus.

Dorm Life

My roommates are amazing, the RA's are helpful and understanding, and the social interaction is great!

Academic Rigor

The work is rigorous, but in the most rewarding way.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved on campus! That is the best way to find a group of friends who you can really click with.

In three sentences

UCLA is like a dream come true. I have had an amazing first year, the campus is beautiful, the students are fun, and the professors are intelligent and interested in student success. I cannot imagine attending a different school.

Alexis from Spring Valley, CA

I have never felt unsafe on the UCLA campus. There are many resources to ensure this including a full service UCLA Police Department on campus and an evening van and dispatch service.

Greek Life

There are many different types of fraternities and sororities available for the many different types of students at UCLA.

Clubs and Activities

Some may complain that UCLA is too large but the school's size allows the vast number of clubs and activities to not only exist but also to flourish on campus. There is a club or activity for almost every interest.

Great for these types of students

UCLA is great for very academic students. Your skills will be tested and strengthened in an environment of similar people for a better value than some other universities.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The eight clap is very uniting and powerful. Every Bruin knows it and initiates the cheer whenever UCLA spirit is necessary.

Bang for the buck

The best bang for the buck is Diddy Reese in Westwood. They sell huge ice cream cookie sandwiches for under two dollars each, best deal ever.

What to do for fun

UCLA has a great gym with great classes available for no additional costs besides tuition. There is a phenomenal arts program with concerts and plays going on every day. Westwood, the small city around the campus has numerous restaurants, shops, and places to hang out. If none of those are preferable, the hill (where the residence and dining facilities are located) also has a plethora of fun activities.

Food and Dining

The food and dining at UCLA is one of the best things about the school. There are three dining halls, one that specializes in pan-Asian food, and all have an array of different dishes at every meal time. There are also three quick service restaurants including a sandwich cafe, an Italian cafe, and a half Mexican half Chinese restaurant which students can order and take back to their room or on the go. Everything I have eaten from all food places has been delicious, especially breakfast.

Dorm Life

The dorm buildings are very nice. There are many different options to choose from with different amenities and price levels. The dorms are very social and have floor events at least twice a month. The only downside is their location. They are located on a hill a bit far from campus so it is hard to go back and forth.

Academic Rigor

I have only taken general education classes so far and they demanded much of my attention. Classes here are much harder than any high school class but as I said above, if you make it into UCLA you will probably be ready for the step up. The professors are very intelligent and very helpful if you need help.

Tips for prospective students

Be prepared to work harder than you did in high school. If you get in though, you will probably be ready for it anyway. Also bring an umbrella and comfortable shoes (remember the walking).

In three sentences

UCLA is more than I ever could have hoped it would be. The dorms are wonderful facilities, the food available on the meal plans are excellent, the faculty are knowledgeable and care about students and learning. The worst thing about the school is the walking and that never hurt anyone.

Samantha from Las Vegas, NV

There are campus security officers and the EMT services are actually on campus. There is an escort service from campus to the dorms late at night and a shuttle for safe transportation.

Clubs and Activities

There is literally a club for everyone, and if there isn't a club for your interest, it is easy to start one. From the Disney club to performing arts clubs to volunteer clubs to pre-professional clubs, the multitude of clubs leaves little to be desired.

Great for these types of students

UCLA is a great school for students who want a good balance of the academics and the social life. There is the opportunity to have the full college experience while attending one of the top universities in the US. UCLA is renowned worldwide for its unparalleled research and outstanding science programs.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Not many people know this, but there is a creek on campus. It's behind the Anderson School of management and it's quite pretty. Bruin Bash is a concert during 0 week that has had artists in the past such as Childish Gambino, LMFAO, Hellogoodbye, and Ra Ra Riot. There is also the Undie Run during finals week to blow off stress. The UCLA v. USC rivalry has blown up into a week long of Beat $C events like smashing a car and the 30ft bonfire. The top of the Broad building has an amazing view of downtown Los Angeles as well.

What to do for fun

You can always go have dinner in Westwood a short walk away. There are also two movie theaters that sometimes hold premiers with the stars of the movies. If you have access to a car, places like karaoke bars and the beach are not too far. There are always events on campus to go to, like concerts and plays.

Food and Dining

UCLA has the best food out of all of the colleges that I have been to. All of my friends who live in the apartments jump at the chance to eat in the dining halls. I have even heard of people selling unused swipes. There are 3 dining halls and 3 take out cafes that you can use the meal plans at and there is such a variety every day.

Dorm Life

The RAs make sure that there are a lot of floor and building bonding activities. These activities bring the dormies closer and we all become part of a family. There is always something fun going on from movie nights to trips to Santa Monica.

Academic Rigor

There are high standards for the Bruin. It is considered a West Coast Ivy, on par with the traditional Ivy league schools on the East Coast. The UC system is the top system in California and UCLA is second only to UC Berkeley.

Tips for prospective students

Join clubs and get involved! It will make your college experience so much better. Learn to balance the demanding academics with fun activities and you will not regret a second of your time at UCLA.

In three sentences

UCLA is a school that offers absolutely everything a student could want. From the high academic standards, to the numerous clubs for every interest, to the active Greek life, there is something for everyone. Everyone at UCLA is so proud to be a Bruin and the school pride is something that brings us all together as a family.

Der from Fresno, CA

01/04/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There are plenty of things to do while you are at UCLA. you can take a walk around campus and enjoy the scenery around you. There is also Westwood village, museums, and many many more things to do/visit around here.

Food and Dining

The food here is fantastic! I believe UCLA is ranked number 2 of the nation!

Dorm Life

Living in the dorms is an amazing experience. Sometimes, it can get loud, but there are quiet hours. Most people are friends and willing to be your friend.

Academic Rigor

It's competitive here, but don't worry about what others are doing, just stay focus, go at your own pace, and remain in contact with the university at all times.

Yevgenia from Los Angeles, CA

01/06/2013

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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In three sentences

My sister is currently going to UCLA and she absolutely loves it! She lived on campus her first year but then moved to an apartment in Westwood. It is definitely academically rigorous, but it has a great social environment. The benefit of going to such a large university is that you are bound to find friends that share similar interests and ambitions.

Dai from Hayward, CA

Go kayaking for free, go to Santa Monica to shop. Take a walk in Westwood.

Food and Dining

The food here is rated as one of the bests in the UC's system. There are a lot of varieties.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is okay depending on which dorm you end up living in.

Academic Rigor

It's intense here. The curve is harsh for students aiming to achieve A's. It's not impossible if you are willing to work hard. However, sometimes studying hard doesn't mean getting the grade you think you deserve.

Tips for prospective students

Study hard. Look around and join random things. It might be hard to blend in at first, but you just have to find your niche.

In three sentences

This university has a very motivated and active dynamic. The people are friendly and helpful. There are a lot of opportunities for students, but the competitions are intense.

LK from Buena Park, CA

Go and explore LA! There are also plenty of student clubs around campus and many activities that the ORL holds every week.

Food and Dining

There are plenty to food options on the hill, on campus and even in Westwood. You will never need to survive off of ramen!

Dorm Life

Everyone is very nice and helpful and the dorm rooms are quite comfortable.

Academic Rigor

The work load will be heavy, but if you work hard in high school, the work load in college will not be a hinderance to your success.

Tips for prospective students

Stay involved in the extra curricular activities that you are involved in and never be lazy about your academics. Make sure to be open minded and be prepared for plenty of challenges.

In three sentences

It is a beautiful campus with an abundance of resources. The environment is great for learning and you can get involved with plenty of activities on and off campus. The diversity will also grow you as an individual.

Grace from Buena Park, CA

01/12/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

LAPD is just around the corner of the campus and there are emergency structures placed all around campus just in case. There is also the late night walking services in case you have to go somewhere at night (on-campus) by yourself.

Clubs and Activities

There are many different clubs on campus to suit your interests.

Great for these types of students

UCLA is great for students who have bright personalities and love to think outside of the box.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

During the freshman orientation, you are bruin baptized by dipping your hand into the inverted fountain.

Bang for the buck

Everything is really expensive but since it is a public school, US citizens will get financial aid from the government if applicable.

What to do for fun

There are many things to do for fun. Even though most people think partying is the only thing you can do, there are many programs available throughout the school. You can join intramural sports teams, participate in activities in the gym, go swimming, and much more. There are also many clubs on campus.

Food and Dining

The food is delicious and you have different varieties of foods to choose from. The food is sometimes fattening and contain lots of sugar so plan out your meals.

Dorm Life

You have many resources available to you. Advisers will be around often to help and answer questions.

Academic Rigor

Well, it all depends on the classes you're taking but the professors will always challenge you. It is way different from high school.

Tips for prospective students

UCLA looks for well-rounded students so just be yourself on your application. Be prepared to work hard and expect hardships during your first year.

In three sentences

The university population is very diverse; everyone is unique in their own way. The atmosphere is welcoming. It is definitely a great place to start if you want to break out of your shell!

Christina from Alhambra, CA

Join various extracurriculars that are offered on campus, nightlife in Hollywood, parties in Frat Row, and shopping in areas like Third Street Promenade.

Food and Dining

Compared to food in every other college campus, food here is amazing. But honestly, no matter how amazing the food can be, it gets really monotonous and so sickening after a while.

Dorm Life

The food becomes sickening after the third week, the dorms are tiny and extremely overpriced, and living in dorms is just plain uncomfortable.

Academic Rigor

The classes I've taken so far aren't difficult at all, but I heard that science and math classes here are rather hard.

Tips for prospective students

Don't let the good food fool you into thinking this is the best school in the world, because you will get sick of the food eventually. Go for how you feel about the atmosphere and how beneficial the school will be for you.

In three sentences

The Hill is a terrible place to walk up when you're tired. The people are rather pretentious and competitive, but that's what you'll get at a higher ranked school. It's also like The Hunger Games during enrollment period.

William from Rowland Heights, CA

I feel completely safe and secure; I've never heard anyone say they were scared for their lives.

Greek Life

Be careful about which frat you choose, and spend some time researching before and during rush times. You don't want to get netted into a time-consuming frat that you can't handle.

Clubs and Activities

There is a wide variety to choose from. Ping pong club, dragonboating club, sign language club, you name it. Whatever you want, they have.

Great for these types of students

It is great for everyone! Whether you like to study or you like to party, this school is the right place for you. However, time management is key on this campus as well as any other campus you'll find. If you balance out your activities, you will live life to the fullest here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

On finals week, we have a final scream where at midnight, everyone who is braindead and needs to vent simply screams at the top of their lungs until they've cooled down. We also have a (not so) friendly rivalry with USC, so we take every opportunity to bash on them. Finally, there are a series of tunnels underground that are perfect for cunning adventurers or people who just want a little privacy.

Bang for the buck

UC prices are a bit on the expensive end, but it's the best out of all the UC's with the same price as all the other UC's. Basically, you're definitely getting your money's worth, even if you have paid a lot.

What to do for fun

As I said earlier, the surrounding village Westwood is beautiful; there are several shops and restaurants that you can visit there with your friends on weekends. We also have several rec centers, both inside and outside, where you can play ping ping, billiards, or just chat. Finally, there are a myriad of clubs on campus that hold activities every week, so you are free to join those as well.

Food and Dining

Not your five-star restaurant, but I wasn't expecting one anyway. The food is delightfully tasty; I haven't met anyone yet who claims to dislike the food here.

Dorm Life

Try to get the halls; everything else is either too expensive or is too difficult to socialize within. With that said, everyone on my floor is extremely friendly and we get along great.

Academic Rigor

Classes here are tough; you wouldn't be expected to find a class where you could skip lectures and bomb tests and still ace the course. However, with toughness comes a great learning experience, so make what you can of it! Trust me, you'd much rather have a hard class that you actually get something out of than have a worthless class that you can easily ace.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved in campus life as soon as possible; focus on making friends the first quarter. The people you interact with right at the beginning likely be who you hang out with during the rest of your college life and even afterwards. Also, apply for as many scholarships as you can. Whether it be you or your parents paying for this education, more money that you could net is never a bad thing. Don't get lazy! Finally, be prepared to face challenges. The classes aren't a breeze like they were in high school; you won't have the same friends you did in high school either. Get to work socializing and getting your grades up there. Once you've done those, you can focus on more fun activities!

In three sentences

This school is paradise. The surrounding village Westwood is beautiful with virtually no crime rate, the campus is beautiful, and the dining halls serve food decently good food. Most importantly, there are plenty of clubs and activities on campus that is open to everyone and caters to a wide variety of interests.

Nicole from Porter Ranch, CA

I am only on campus during daylight hours, however during that time I have always felt safe walking to and from classes. The parking lots are secure and provide a safe way to drive to and from school.

Greek Life

Greek life is huge at UCLA, hosting many events and provides a particular social setting for those who are interested.

Clubs and Activities

UCLA has many clubs for a diverse variety of peoples. On Bruinwalk, outside of Ackerman Union, there are plenty of advertisements and representatives willing to, and will, inform you of the many clubs and activities on campus.

Great for these types of students

UCLA is a great university for serious and committed students, ready to learn, focus, and face challenging course material. It is also a great university for those interested in research facilities, as UCLA is a research institute, it possesses many research opportunities for both undergraduates and graduates.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

One unusual location, and a great place to study outdoors, is the sculpture garden. This is a large grassy area, with pathways and a large fountain in the northeast corner, embellished with scattered sculptures of different mediums. It is a great place to study outdoors because it is in the northeast corner of campus, where there is normally little activity, with benches and sprawling lawns to set up your studying materials. With birds chirping and fresh air, this atmosphere makes an ideal escape from any noisy roommates.

Bang for the buck

For me, coffee is a necessity for early classes. The best bang for the buck is the $1.85 house blend coffee at the Lu Valle Commons Cafe. The house blend is an extremely rich and aromatic coffee that provides an alertness without feeling the jitters.

What to do for fun

Westwood is a very lively, college-fueled city. There are many restaurants, theaters, as well as outdoor activities to enjoy.

Food and Dining

The campus has many places to choose from in regards to food and dining. I prefer Il Tramezzino, a recently added italian bistro with many options, including gluten-free menu items, however they are most famous for the chicken special panini - which is awesome.

Academic Rigor

Academically, UCLA is both extremely challenging and rewarding. Professors expect students to be both professional and productive, while providing the guidance needed to succeed. The ten week quarter system is quick-pace, although allows students to fully absorb course material as needed.

Tips for prospective students

In the beginning, the quarter system seems intimidating. However, it is a very forward and rewarding experience. Do not let the idea of ten weeks get in the way of you succeeding. It can be fast-paced, which demands that you keep up with your reading and assignments. Keep a calendar. Personally I have a whiteboard calendar, which makes easy to keep up by having my weekly plan visually in front of me.

In three sentences

UCLA is a University with extremely high academic morals with qualified professors who are there to help you succeed. The quarter system can be demanding, however it is extremely rewarding. School spirit is lively and helps to create social networks which promote a healthy student body.

Jilber from UCLA

The campus is located between the 3 safest neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Brentwood, Bel-Air, and Westwood. By far one of the safest places I know.

Greek Life

I haven't partaken in it, but I think there's a place for everyone. Some organizations focus on academics, and others on social events. Like I said, you'll find your place.

Clubs and Activities

This place is teeming with clubs and activities. Anything you want, from soccer to quidditch, hah!

Great for these types of students

Academically speaking, medical students, economics, etc. But the campus itself welcomes all types. Diversity is one of the defining features of UCLA.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The sculpture garden. Just amazingly beautiful, and teeming with art. Great place for a cheap date.

Bang for the buck

It's a bit expensive, but much more cost effective than private schools, and probably more prestigious.

What to do for fun

Plenty! Whatever your heart desires. There are always social gatherings and interesting things going on - and check out bruin walk if you want to find a cause or anything really to get active in.

Food and Dining

Rated #2 in the nation I believe. In the dorms it's awesome.

Dorm Life

Hey, if you're social it's rewarding. But if you're holed up in your room all day then you won't get much out of it.

Academic Rigor

Just astounding. Of course

Tips for prospective students

Remember, it's not all about the grades. Don't lose sight of the bigger picture. Above all, don't forget that what you're doing is discovering yourself as an individual, not simply attaining a degree.

In three sentences

It's just amazing the type of people you'll meet there; the connections you'll make. The education is amazing and top quality, but I promise you that the courses won't be the most enlightening thing there. The experiences you'll have, the diversity, it's all part of a growing experience that helps prepare you for the real world - and it's mind-blowing.

Ajia

Any college/university is going to be expensive . While I feel that this school is a little excessive in the amounts that it asks for things, they do offer many amenities and resources .

What to do for fun

There are always frat/sorority parties happening . Different racial and cultural groups often have parties to bring their community closer together . There are also clubs and groups that are devoted to adventure and finding things to do in LA .

Food and Dining

There are several different varieties of food to choose from . You can eat in the dining halls or take food back to your room . We have some of the food in the entire UC system .

Dorm Life

Living in the dorms is amazing . Everyone is ready and willing to make new friends and there are many people who are taking the same classes as you . You can form study groups and meet some of the best friends you will ever have .

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor is difficult but you will be taught by some of the best professors in their respective departments in the nation . The best thing to do is tackle homework immediately, do all the readings, and attend office hours if you're having any difficulties or need any questions answered .

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you take multiple AP classes in high school . This will help your chances of being accepted as well as possibly cover some of your major/minor requirements . Also, be prepared for a whole new level of academic from high school . It will be difficult but you will make it through .

In three sentences

This school is literally amazing . It accommodates people from all different backgrounds with different interests and needs . Some of the smartest people in the nation attend this school and they all study very hard but still know how to party almost daily .

Erica from North Fork, CA

02/19/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The only downfall is that sometimes I'm a little sketched out to walk around at night alone (which I guess is true for anywhere). Maybe I'm a little paranoid... but I try not to walk alone at night, and if I can't avoid it, I carry pepper-spray. There are escorts you can call to walk you home though if you're ever concerned about it so it never really ends up being a big deal if you're smart about it!

Greek Life

As a member of the Greek community, I can definitely say that the Greek life is great. The houses are really close to campus (sororities are closer than the dorms!) and are all on the same street, which is fun. Being a part of a sorority has given me some of my best memories here and I highly recommend it. Even as I write this, I'm sitting in the living room of my house waiting to see what lunch will be for today... it's pretty great and you make some really close friends.

Clubs and Activities

Ocean Club! Haha just kidding... sort of. My roommate, my friends and I started this club and have had a lot of fun organizing events and stuff for our 400+ members. That's the neat thing about UCLA though, if there isn't a club for exactly what you're interested in, you can start one!

Great for these types of students

Students who can buckle down and work had in trying classes but still know how to have fun. There are a ton of really cool people (24,000 undergrads!) and it'd be a shame if all you did was hole up in your room and study 24/7 when UCLA has so much more to offer.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Oh how to pick just one! There are so many! Maybe the tradition of rubbing the Bruin Bear statue's back paw on your way to a midterm or final for good luck.... there are so many great ones though.

What to do for fun

I'm a big coffee-person so I like to explore a new coffee shop in the surrounding area every weekend. It makes for some fun studying and I've discovered so many really cool, hole-in-the-wall cafes.

Food and Dining

The food in the dining halls is one of my favorite aspects of UCLA. The last thing I ate was mango-salsa topped grilled salmon... seriously? And there is a huge range of choices so no matter what you like, there's something for you. Oh yeah, and on Valentine's Day they served a ton of chocolate-covered strawberries. Yes. This is real life.

Dorm Life

UCLA has some of the best dorms that I've seen (of UC Berkeley, Cal Poly SLO, and Univ. of Tennessee). They're all really recently built or re-done and close to each other so a friend in another building is never a far walk away.

Academic Rigor

Drop your self-esteem at the door. That sounds harsh but it's true. When everyone around you is a genius, chances are you'll be just average, which you're probably not used to. Just don't take it personally and do your best.

Tips for prospective students

Visit the campus to get an idea of how great UCLA is... it definitely didn't fit my idea of what an LA university would be like (in a good way). Students obviously work hard but I feel like they're also chiller than those at some other top universities, which is nice.

In three sentences

UCLA has it all: high academic prestige, great hospitals and major businesses nearby for great internship opportunities, great NCAA Division 1 sports teams, an awesome Greek system, a beautiful campus in a great location of West Hollywood, and so much more. Attending school here was one of the best decisions I've ever made and I'm grateful for the experiences that it brings every day.

The dorm experience is great for one's first year. One meets many people and becomes friends with them rather quickly. Especially people on one's floor. If one doesn't enjoy sharing things with others, get used to it!

Academic Rigor

It is a tough school, and very competitive. However, there are great professors who are understanding. It is possible, but one must stay on top of their work. Never be afraid to ask questions! Remember everyone understands things differently, and learns things differently so questions are more than welcome in all lectures and discussions.

Tips for prospective students

UCLA is apart of the quarter system, which means there is no time for procrastinating. Be sure to stay on top of readings, and assignments. If one feels they are falling behind, do not panic. Breathe and push onward. Live on campus your first year, and get involved so that you make friends! If one is afraid to try something, one should do it, because a challenge is the best thing one can do for oneself and one's brain.

In three sentences

It is a huge, beautiful campus, with great people and many opportunities for people with an array of different backgrounds. The campus and student life is what makes this school so great. Another great thing about UCLA is that we often have guest lecturers such as James Franco!

Sav from California

03/04/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There's a lot. Buses can go to almost anywhere close by: Hollywood, Santa Monica, Culver City. As well as Westwood is in walking distance, so at night you can go to the big movie theaters, or eat out (Diddy Riese cookies is delicious!) and there are some shopping places close too. Plus Frat row is on Gayley right next to the dorms so there is always a way to find a good party!

Food and Dining

Food is awesome actually, we have like 3 to 4 dining halls and 3 take out places where you can use the meal plan on the hill and the food is delicious. You can get Chinese, Mexican, Italian, or just a coffee or a smoothie, or simply a buffet of salad and burgers and sweets. We have it nice here.

Dorm Life

Its pretty sweet, not going to lie. There are nicer dorms, and not so great ones, but overall the feel and space is nice. There are apartments, single spaces, doubles, triples. All depending on what you choose in the housing application. It feels safe too so thats a less of a worry as well.

Academic Rigor

It's not going to be a breeze, let me say. Classes are hard and sometimes carry a lot of work. Don't get me wrong you can find those easy GE classes, but if you want to get your moneys worth most of the classes are high intellectual thinking and for me can get very time consuming but its worth it in the end.

Tips for prospective students

I would say, don't slack off but don't be afraid to apply either. Everyone who gets in is usually always shocked, I know I was. I definitely didn't think I was going to make it but here I am loving it. Make sure you want to come here though, don't just say yes because of its name, really research your major and see if you like the program, and research other schools! You want to at least enjoy where you go if you're going to be here for four year you know?

In three sentences

UCLA is an amazing school: it's esteemed, in a great location, I mean who doesn't know the name UCLA? It's got so many opportunities for so many majors, all of which including a great education where you can learn so much more than just what you signed up for. There's so much to do on campus too, its not just class and dorm, if you have an interest for something--there's a group, class, gym, sorority and fraternity to go to; UCLA has every option for learning and enjoying the college life.

All types of students. Might not be great for Math majors because of the lack of good math professors.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Beat SC bonfire prior to the UCLA v. USC football game is a great tradition where firemen burn USC signs made by UCLA students.

Bang for the buck

Beautiful place to live and learn.

What to do for fun

Westwood village is close by and frat parties are fun.

Food and Dining

Delicious dining halls and a wide variety of food. One of the best in the nation.

Dorm Life

Dorms are very clean and have been a great experience for me. It is a really good way to make friends.

Academic Rigor

Very fast paced because of the quarter system so it is important to stay on top of everything.

Tips for prospective students

Living on campus is a great experience and you should consider it even if you live nearby because it is a great way to form lasting friendships.

In three sentences

UCLA has a beautiful campus and everyone on campus has a lot of school spirit. Teachers are very knowledgable but the math professors tend to have very thick accents. Overall I love it and think it was a great pick for me.

Shivali from San Jose, CA

Westwood is a nice escape from campus with all the great eateries and shops! Santa Monica, Hollywood, and Culver City are close by, too, so there is never a shortage of fun activities.

Food and Dining

The dining hall food is great! There is a lot of variety, and most things are very well made!

Dorm Life

People are especially social in their freshmen year. If you are opting for a more social dorm, opt for a residence hall over a residence plaza or suite.

Academic Rigor

Every class here is very difficult! There is no such thing as an easy class. That being said, try your best all the time :)

Tips for prospective students

Know that you are okay with the fast-paced quarter system before you enroll here! Classes can move very quickly.

In three sentences

UCLA is everything I could have wished for! It has a great location, vigorous academics, and so many different options for how to get involved in extracurriculars. Definitely apply to this great school.

Anonymous

They try to keep the campus as safe as possible. If you have any safety concerns, they are always willing to try to fix it.

Greek Life

Many different Fraternities and Sororities that take pride in who they are.

Clubs and Activities

There are over 1,000 Clubs to join. If a specific club is not there, you can always make your own!

Great for these types of students

People at UCLA are very outgoing and down the Earth, but also still very responsible and studious.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Undie Run and Midnight Yell! All to relieve stress during finals week.

Bang for the buck

Everyone I have met has never regretted going to UCLA. You will always find something that you will be passionate about. There is also many resources that you can take advantage of.

What to do for fun

Go to Westwood, which is literally a 10 minute walk. There you can shop, eat, watch a movie. Even on campus and on The Hill, you will always find an event going on.

Food and Dining

We're number 4 in the nation, I think that speaks for itself.

Dorm Life

Everyone is very nice and welcoming. No one looks down on you. You will meet amazing people of different personalities and form friendships that you will want to keep throughout college and beyond.

Academic Rigor

Nothing in life ever comes easy, and UCLA makes sure of that.

Tips for prospective students

In order to succeed at UCLA, you first must feel like you belong at the school. Don't choose it because of its name, but choose it because it feels right to you, physically and mentally. Take pride with the fact that once you become a Bruin, you'll die a Bruin.

In three sentences

UCLA is my home away from home. It is my hopeless romantic because I fall in love with the school over and over again each day. It is my biggest challenge, but my greatest accomplishment.

Janelle from Daly City, CA

UCLA has a program in which it hires and trains students who are then on call at night to walk people home. They also provide vans to drive people back to the dorms or apartments at night.

Clubs and Activities

The number of clubs still amazes me. I only wish I had more time so I could join more.

Great for these types of students

Social people and people who love to volunteer.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

UCLA has something called the Undie Run on Wednesday night of every finals week. Students gather and run around campus in their underwear to relieve stress or celebrate finishing their finals.

What to do for fun

Clubs are constantly holding events on campus or at the dorms. They're usually free for students and are a great way to spend a (cheap) evening with friends.

Food and Dining

The dining hall food is great, considering dorm food is generally thought to be terrible. There's a great variety and the all-you-can-eat dining halls are a great deal.

Dorm Life

The dorms are a great place to make friends. All of UCLA's dorms are located together, so it's a great community. However, the dorms are a little cramped, being mostly triples.

Academic Rigor

Professors here definitely challenge you to think critically. Studying is a priority, as you'll see many students in the library at all times of the day.

Tips for prospective students

Visit your counselors periodically; you want to make sure you're on track and taking the classes you need. Join a club or two; it's a great way to make friends with similar interests. Study abroad; if you can, it's an amazing experience.

In three sentences

Attending UCLA has been the best experience of my life, both socially and academically. One of the best things about UCLA is its proximity to so many things, such as Hollywood, the Getty Museum, and Santa Monica. Student life is definitely thriving, with student groups for just about anything you can think of.

Amanda from North Hills, CA

Suppperclub, the Troubadour, and other events hosted at the COOP or by Bruin Party Network

Great for these types of students

Urban, cool, suave, intelligent, down-to earth, work hard play hard students who are ready to meet a lot of new cool people.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

I think UCLA is a great place to have weekend photoshoots with your friends.

Bang for the buck

Watch your finances! LA can get pricey sometimes.

What to do for fun

There's lots to do for fun, you can visit the Getty Museum, LACMA, beaches, Rodeo Drive, and Hollywood. There's lot of hiking trails in Malibu, Santa Monica, and Runyon Canyon. Koreatown is a great place to go for karaokee and great KBBQ. There are lots of concert venues as well.

Food and Dining

UCLA is located in one of the best areas in Los Angeles, with Santa Monica to the West and Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, and Hollywood to the East, you're sure to find lots of fine dinning and cusine and all price ranges. LA is so diverse so you are bound to find food from all over the world everywhere you go. The Persian restaurants on Westwood are a must try!

Dorm Life

Dorm Life has its perks but make sure to stay in shape and not put on some extra pounds at the dinning halls.

Academic Rigor

Some classes can be rigorous but forming study groups will allow you to form strong academic bonds with other students for future classes and will give you the opportunity to meet new people. Getting your work done on time and having a strong discipline also paves the way for success. Getting to know your professors and going to their office hours is a must! that way you will feel more comfortable in your class and are more likely to be successful. Knowing your professor will create an interpersonal relationship between you and your classes.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you explore every possibility as early as possible. As a transfer student, there were simply too many things to do in such a small amount of time. If I could go back I would be informed of the many programs the school offers to get started on them instead of wishing I had done them when I'm about to graduate.

In three sentences

UCLA is a beautiful campus with a friendly and clean environment. One can truly find classes and professors that will change their lives and inspire their futures. I wish I could spend another year to get more out of the millions of opportunities offered at this university.

Anonymous

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Food and Dining

There are many places to dine on campus, and they serve any kind of food you can think of. It is a little expensive, though.

Dorm Life

The dorms are OK. A bit better than other schools, but not perfect.

Academic Rigor

Very tough school academically. It uses a quarter system instead of a semester system, making learning there a little fast-paced, but not necessarily difficult. Overall, a great place with a great quality of education

In three sentences

Great reputation for academic excellence. Located in an awesome city with everything nearby. UCLA is a great school overall.

Cassandra from Livermore, CA

If you ever feel uncomfortable, you can call a Community Service Officer to come walk you from one place to another

Greek Life

Greeks at UCLA are very involved, and role models on campus. They participate in many philanthropic events, and are a very close-knit group, supporting each other.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The eight clap is essential to life.

Bang for the buck

UCLA is the most expensive UC, but classes are good and the meal plan is definitely worth it.

What to do for fun

You can walk to Westwood to get food, go shopping, or go to a movie. There are almost always sports events going on on campus that you can attend and cheer on the Bruins. The bus is very cheap, so you can go to Santa Monica and go to the 3rd Street Promenade or to the beach. There are many things to do.

Food and Dining

Food is amazing.

Dorm Life

Depending on where you live, you can be close with the people in your dorm and make lots of friends. However, some of the plazas are very antisocial

Academic Rigor

Classes move at a fast pace, but as long as you take the time to work and study you will be fine.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved with many things on campus to meet new people, and start studying for midterms during week 1.

In three sentences

UCLA is a great school with lots of diversity. There are many things to get involved with. Professors are very easy to talk to and get to know.

Miriam from Los Angeles, CA

04/27/2013

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Food and Dining

During my admit weekend with Afrikan Student Association, we got a taste of the food and man the food is delicious!!! I grew up on African food and didn't really like most American food because it was too sweet or tasteless to me ( no offense, I'm used to spicy food) but I was surprised at the food at UCLA. It was delicious and you get a lot of healthy options to prevent that freshman 15 weight gain plus all the walking to classes you'll do

Dorm Life

At my admit weekend, I got a chance to dorm for 3 days. The plazas are great but the halls are really small. My counselor told me that all the rooms are the same sizes but spacing depends on how the furniture are arranged.

Academic Rigor

Common now, this is one of the top schools in the world, so obviously the classes are going to be very rigorous. Be ready to take the challenge but it's not too hard especially if you're the AAP ( I heard because you get a lot of free tutoring0

Tips for prospective students

To prospective students... SIR!!! Can't wait to see you guys in fall of 2013

In three sentences

This is such a great school: The students are very friendly and smart , campus beautiful, great school spirit, lot of resources, rigor classes, & good food